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Updated: Jun 30, 2025
Microbiota Analysis Using Two-step PCR and Next-generation 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing
Published on: October 15, 2019
Migraine and the microbiota. Can probiotics be beneficial in its prevention? - a narrative review
Aneta Kiecka1, Marian Szczepanik2
1Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Physiotherapy, Chair of Biomedical Sciences, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kopernika 7a, Kraków, 31-034, Poland. aneta.kiecka@uj.edu.pl.
Abstract:
Migraine is a recurrent disease of the central nervous system that affects an increasing number of people worldwide causing a continuous increase in the costs of treatment. The mechanisms underlying migraine are still unclear but recent reports show that people with migraine may have an altered composition of the intestinal microbiota. It is well established that the gut-brain axis is involved in many neurological diseases, and probiotic supplementation may be an interesting treatment option for these conditions. This review collects data on the gastrointestinal and oral microbiota in people suffering from migraine and the use of probiotics as a novel therapeutic approach in its treatment.
Insights
Migraine patients may have altered gut and oral bacteria. Probiotic supplements targeting the gut-brain axis offer a potential new treatment for this common neurological disorder.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Microbiology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Migraine is a prevalent, recurring central nervous system disorder with increasing global impact and treatment costs.
- The underlying mechanisms of migraine remain incompletely understood.
- Emerging evidence suggests a potential link between migraine and altered intestinal microbiota composition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current data on the gastrointestinal and oral microbiota in individuals with migraine.
- To explore the potential of probiotic supplementation as a novel therapeutic strategy for migraine management.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of existing literature.
- Analysis of studies investigating gut and oral microbiome in migraineurs.
- Evaluation of research on probiotic interventions for neurological conditions.
Main Results:
- Studies indicate dysbiosis in the gut and oral microbiota of migraine sufferers.
- The gut-brain axis is recognized as a significant factor in neurological disease pathogenesis.
- Probiotic supplementation shows promise as a modulator of the gut microbiota.
Conclusions:
- Alterations in the gut and oral microbiota are associated with migraine.
- The gut-brain axis presents a viable target for migraine treatment.
- Probiotics represent a promising, novel therapeutic avenue for managing migraine.
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