Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 12, 2026
Microbiota Analysis Using Two-step PCR and Next-generation 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing
Published on: October 15, 2019
The Emerging Role of the Gut Microbiome in Adult Patients With Multiple Sclerosis
Pamela K Newland1, Margaret Heitkemper, Yanjiao Zhou
1Questions or comments about this article may be directed to Pamela K. Newland, PhD RN CMSRN, at Pamela.newland@bjc.org. She is an NRSA Postdoctoral Fellow, Nursing Faculty, Goldfarb School of Nursing, Barnes Jewish College, St. Louis, MO. Margaret Heitkemper, PhD, is Chair, Department of Biobehavioral Nursing and Health Systems, University of Washington School of Nursing, Seattle, WA. Yanjiao Zhou, PhD, Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT.
Background:
Approximately 2.3 million people worldwide are currently living with multiple sclerosis (MS). The pathophysiologic mechanism of MS is not well known. It has been suggested that alterations in the normal gut flora may contribute to MS etiology and symptoms.
Objective:
The aims of this review are to describe the data suggesting a role for the gut microbiome in MS research and address its implications for practice.
Methods:
A literature search of the following databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane library database, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Psychology and Behavioral Sciences) was conducted to find published studies relevant to gut microbiome in patients with MS.
Study Selection:
Five articles met the inclusion criteria of research studies of human gut microbiome in adults in English language and those receiving disease-modifying medications. Exclusion criteria were case reports and reviews.
Results:
Human studies found that the gut microbiome was different among patients with MS, patients with MS who were treated with glatiramer acetate, and healthy controls.
Discussion:
There is beginning evidence to suggest that the gut microbiota is related to autoimmunity and the pathology of MS. However, more research is necessary to clarify these mechanisms.
Implications For Practice:
A better understanding of the role of the gut microbiota in MS may lead to the development of targeted individualized interventions affecting the gut microbiota. These interventions may emphasize symptom self-management strategies such as diet.
Insights
Alterations in gut flora may influence multiple sclerosis (MS) development and symptoms. Research indicates differences in the gut microbiome of MS patients compared to healthy individuals, suggesting a potential therapeutic target.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Microbiome Research
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) affects approximately 2.3 million globally, with unclear pathophysiologic mechanisms.
- Emerging evidence suggests a potential link between gut flora alterations and MS etiology/symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing data on the gut microbiome's role in multiple sclerosis (MS).
- To discuss the implications of gut microbiome research for clinical practice in MS.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search across major scientific databases (PubMed, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Scopus, etc.).
- Inclusion of five English-language studies focusing on adult human gut microbiomes in MS patients, excluding case reports and reviews.
- Analysis of studies involving patients receiving disease-modifying medications.
Main Results:
- Significant differences were observed in the gut microbiome composition among MS patients, MS patients on glatiramer acetate treatment, and healthy controls.
- These findings highlight a distinct gut microbial profile associated with multiple sclerosis.
Conclusions:
- Preliminary evidence supports a connection between gut microbiota, autoimmunity, and the pathology of MS.
- Further research is crucial to elucidate the precise mechanisms involved.
- Understanding the gut microbiota's role may enable personalized interventions, including dietary strategies, for MS symptom self-management.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:23Anatomy of the Intestines
Small Intestines
The small intestine is an ~7 meter-long tube with an inner diameter of just 2.5 cm. Since most nutrients are absorbed here, the inner lining of the...
01:05Physiology of Enteric Nervous System and Gut Health
01:30Inflammatory Bowel Disease III: Diagnostic Studies and Management I-Nutritional Therapy
Diagnostic studies
A colonoscopy is the definitive screening test, distinguishing ulcerative colitis from other colon diseases with similar symptoms. During a colonoscopy test, inflamed mucosa with exudate ulcerations can be observed, and biopsies are taken to determine the histologic characteristics of the...
01:17Irritable Bowel Syndrome I: Introduction
IBS is a chronic condition that can persist over a long period or recur frequently.
The pathogenesis of IBS involves a complex interplay of the following factors:
Altered...
01:17Chronic Bowel Disorders: Introduction
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder affecting the gastrointestinal tract. The distinctive feature is recurrent abdominal pain associated with altered bowel movements, manifesting as constipation, diarrhea, or fluctuating between both. The...
01:50What is Monogastric Digestion?