Venkatraman, AnumithaAnumithaVenkatramanDavis, RuthRuthDavisWen-Hsuan TsengThibeault, Susan LSusan LThibeault2025-05-072025-05-072025-01-02https://scholars.lib.ntu.edu.tw/handle/123456789/729040Purpose: Emerging research in the field of microbiology has indicated that host–microbiota interactions play a significant role in regulating health and dis­ease. Whereas the gut microbiome has received the most attention, distinct microbiota in other organs (mouth, larynx, and trachea) may undergo microbial shifts that impact disease states. A comprehensive understanding of microbial mechanisms and their role in communication and swallowing deficits may have downstream diagnostic and therapeutic implications. Method: A literature review was completed to provide a broad overview of the microbiome, including differentiation of commensal versus pathogenic bacteria; cellular mechanisms by which bacteria interact with human cells; site-specific microbial compositional shifts in certain organs; and available reports of oral, laryngeal, and tracheal microbial dysbiosis in conditions that are associated with communication and swallowing deficits. Results/Conclusions: This review article is a valuable tutorial for clinicians, specifically introducing them to the concept of dysbiosis, with potential contri­butions to communication and swallowing deficits. Future research should delineate the role of specific pathogenic bacteria in disease pathogenesis to identify therapeutic targets.en[SDGs]SDG3review article10.1044/2024_JSLHR-24-0043639572259