Abstract

The human microbiome plays a crucial role in maintaining immune homeostasis and protecting against opportunistic fungal infections. Comprising diverse bacterial, viral, and fungal communities, the microbiome interacts dynamically with host immunity to regulate fungal colonization and prevent pathogenic overgrowth. Disruptions in microbiome composition, often due to antibiotic use, immunosuppression, or chronic disease, can create an environment conducive to fungal infections such as candidiasis, aspergillosis, and cryptococcosis. The gut, oral, and skin microbiomes are particularly influential in modulating fungal pathogenicity, with commensal bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium playing key roles in suppressing fungal overgrowth. Recent research highlights the potential for microbiome-targeted therapies, including probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, in restoring microbial balance and reducing fungal disease susceptibility. Understanding the complex interactions between the human microbiome and fungal pathogens is essential for developing novel antifungal strategies and improving patient outcomes, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.