Systemic lupus erythematosus and the gut microbiome: To look forward is to look within – A systematic review and narrative synthesis

The gut microbiome has multifaceted associations with SLE pathogenesis, disease activity, and therapeutic response. Translation will require standardized methods, functional validation, longitudinal follow-up, and clinical integration. While uncertainties remain, the gut microbiome is increasingly relevant, and clinicians caring for patients with SLE should be aware of its emerging implications.