Scientists from the University of São Paulo demonstrated the role of the gut microbiota in brain function, behavior, and the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases in a systematic review. Review published in the journal pharmaceutical research.
Changes in the composition of the intestinal microbiota are associated with a number of diseases: asthma, obesity, diabetes, autoimmune diseases, Parkinson’s disease. Peptide interactions between humans and gut microbes are believed to increase the risk of neurodegenerative disease in genetically predisposed individuals.
The review authors reviewed several studies on the mechanisms by which gut bacteria affect the brain. Numerous studies have shown that the gut microbiota secretes immune system-influencing signaling molecules that activate the vagus nerve. This can disrupt the functioning of immune cells in the brain, which contributes to the development of neurodegenerative diseases.
The authors also found that there were changes in the composition of the gut microbiota, particularly those associated with certain species. Bacteroides, lactobacillus, clostridium and bifidobacteriaaffects brain function in rodent and human models. Experiments on mice with destroyed gut microbiota showed that their cognitive functions were greatly impaired.
Additionally, mice with antibiotic-induced dysbacteriosis (ampicillin) showed increased anxiety, memory impairment, and general inflammation. Probiotic treatment restored a healthy microbiome and led to a reduction in cognitive and behavioral dysfunctions.
Various studies on probiotics and dietary interventions have shown an increase in cognitive function and a decrease in beta-amyloid accumulation in patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
The results of studies reviewed by scientists support the potential role of the gut microbiome in the pathogenesis of diseases such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
Source: Gazeta
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