AUTHOR'S NAME: Michele Antonelli

Hydrobiome and Human Health: The Therapeutic Role of Microbial Diversity in Thermal Springs and Mud Therapy

The hydrobiome—the community of microorganisms and their genetic material present in aquatic environments such as mineral thermal waters and therapeutic muds—represents a promising frontier in biomedicine.
Emerging evidence suggests that these microbial ecosystems may exert beneficial effects on human health through two primary mechanisms:
(1) probiotic-like actions, in which aquatic microbes interact with and support the skin microbiota;
(2) the release of bioactive compounds capable of modulating microbial balance on the skin and penetrating the skin barrier to produce more systemic effects, including anti-inflammatory activity.

Recent studies—particularly in conditions such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis—show that balneotherapy not only improves clinical symptoms but is also associated with changes in both the skin and gut microbiota.
These findings suggest that the hydrobiome may partly explain the long-observed but not fully understood therapeutic benefits of balneotherapy.

As such, the hydrobiome may represent a natural tool to modulate the composition and function of the human microbiota, with broad implications for dermatological, rheumatic, and immune health.
Scrivi qui la tua fantastica etichetta.

Dott. Michele Antonelli

Dr. Michele Antonelli

Location: Reggio Emilia, Italy

Email: michele.antonelli.md@gmail.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michele-antonelli-6aa17b210

Personal Website: www.micheleantonelli.com

Professional Summary

Physician specialized in Preventive Medicine, certified in Medical Acupuncture and Clinical Nutrition.

He combines clinical practice with scientific consulting and academic teaching, with a strong interest in biomedical research and integrative approaches to health.

Member of the World Hydrothermal Organization (OMTh).

Work Experience

Private Physician – Acupuncturist and Nutritionist

Reggio Emilia, Italy | January 2022 – Present

Adjunct Lecturer – University of Parma

Parma, Italy | May 2021 – Present

Education

Postgraduate Training in Applied Nutrition and Dietetics

Pegaso Online University | 2023

Diploma in Medical Acupuncture

Italian Association of Acupuncture | 2022

Specialization in Hygiene and Preventive Medicine

University of Parma | 2016–2020

Doctor of Medicine and Surgery

University of Pisa | 2008–2014

Languages

Italian (native)

English (C1 – Advanced)

Publications

Author of the book “La bussola delle diete” (2023) – A practical guide to evidence-based nutrition. 
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Michele-Antonelli-5

Created with