Gut microbiome metabolites as key actors in atherosclerosis co-depression disease

Area of Science:

• Microbiome research
• Metabolomics
• Cardiovascular disease
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Atherosclerosis (AS) and depression frequently co-occur, yet their shared pathogenesis remains understudied.
• The gut microbiome's influence on host health and disease is increasingly recognized.
• Gut microbiome metabolites are implicated in the pathophysiology of both AS and depression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of specific gut microbiome metabolites in AS and depression.
• To identify common pathogenic mechanisms between AS and depression.
• To explore potential biomarkers for early diagnosis and therapeutic targets.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of high-throughput studies.
• Analysis of findings on key gut microbiome metabolites.
• Synthesis of evidence linking metabolites to AS and depression.

Main Results:

• Pathogen-associated molecular patterns, bile acids, tryptophan metabolites, short-chain fatty acids, and trimethylamine N-oxide are key gut microbiome metabolites involved.
• These metabolites contribute to the pathophysiology of both AS and depression.
• Evidence suggests a shared microbiome-driven pathway in the comorbidity.

Conclusions:

• Gut microbiome metabolites are critical players in the AS-depression comorbidity.
• Targeting these metabolites may offer novel strategies for early diagnosis and treatment.
• Further research into the gut microbiome's role is essential for managing comorbid conditions.