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Updated: Aug 9, 2025
Microbiota Analysis Using Two-step PCR and Next-generation 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing
Published on: October 15, 2019
The importance of gut-brain axis and use of probiotics as a treatment strategy for multiple sclerosis
Nitish Kumar1, Nalini Kanta Sahoo1, Sidharth Mehan2
1SRM Modinagar College of Pharmacy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology (Deemed to be University), Delhi-NCR Campus, Modinagar, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201204, India.
Abstract:
It has been shown that the dysbiosis of the gut's microbes substantially impacts CNS illnesses, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, autism, and autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is a CNS-affected autoimmune demyelination condition. Through a two-way communication pathway known as the gut-brain axis, gut microbes communicate with the CNS. When there is a disruption in the gut microbiome, cytokines and other immune cells are secreted, which affects the BBB and gastrointestinal permeability. Recent research using animal models has revealed that the gut microbiota may greatly influence the pathophysiology of EAE/MS. Any change in the gut might increase inflammatory cytokinesand affect the quantity of SCFAs, and other metabolites that cause neuroinflammation and demyelination. In- vivo and in-vitro studies have concluded that probiotics affect the immune system and can be utilized to treat gastrointestinal dysbiosis. Any alteration in the gut microbial composition caused by probiotic intake may serve as a preventive and treatment strategy for MS. The major goal of this review is to emphasize an overview of recent research on the function of gut microbiota in the onset of MS and how probiotics have a substantial impact on gastrointestinal disruption in MS and other neuro disorders. It will be easier to develop new therapeutic approaches, particularly probiotic-based supplements, for treating multiple sclerosis (MS) if we know the link between the gut and CNS.
Insights
Gut microbes influence central nervous system (CNS) diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS). Probiotics may offer a novel therapeutic strategy by modulating gut microbiota to combat MS-related neuroinflammation and demyelination.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Microbiome Research
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Gut dysbiosis is linked to central nervous system (CNS) disorders, including multiple sclerosis (MS).
- The gut-brain axis facilitates bidirectional communication between gut microbes and the CNS.
- Microbial imbalances can trigger immune responses, affecting gut and blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability, leading to neuroinflammation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent research on the role of gut microbiota in MS pathogenesis.
- To highlight the impact of probiotics on gut dysbiosis in MS and other neurological disorders.
- To explore the gut-brain axis connection for developing novel MS therapeutics.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of in vivo and in vitro studies.
- Analysis of research on gut microbiota composition and its metabolites (e.g., SCFAs).
- Examination of the immunomodulatory effects of probiotics.
Main Results:
- Gut microbiota alterations influence the pathophysiology of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE)/MS.
- Changes in gut microbiota can increase inflammatory cytokines and alter metabolite levels, promoting neuroinflammation.
- Probiotics demonstrate immunomodulatory effects and can treat gastrointestinal dysbiosis.
Conclusions:
- Gut microbiota dysbiosis plays a significant role in the onset and progression of MS.
- Probiotic interventions show potential as a preventive and therapeutic strategy for MS by restoring gut balance.
- Understanding the gut-brain axis is crucial for developing targeted probiotic-based treatments for MS.
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