The relationship between coprophagy and autoimmune disease

Abstract

This thesis embarks on an exploration of coprophagy in dogs, seeking to unravel its intricacies and potential connections to autoimmune diseases. The intriguing relationship between autoimmune diseases and gut flora, observed in both humans and canines, is important for understanding coprophagy beyond a mere behavioral curiosity. The gut, a complex ecosystem housing trillions of microorganisms, plays a crucial role in immune system regulation. In humans, studies have revealed a compelling connection between alterations in gut flora and autoimmune diseases. Particularly, fecal transplantation was shown to have a positive effect on autoimmune diseases.