Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 25, 2025
Microbiota Analysis Using Two-step PCR and Next-generation 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing
Published on: October 15, 2019
Multiple sclerosis and the intestine: Chasing the microbial offender
Anneli Peters1,2, Lisa Ann Gerdes1,2,3, Hartmut Wekerle1,4
1Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany.
Abstract:
Multiple sclerosis (MS) affects more than 2.8 million people worldwide but the distribution is not even. Although over 200 gene variants have been associated with susceptibility, studies of genetically identical monozygotic twin pairs suggest that the genetic make-up is responsible for only about 20%-30% of the risk to develop disease, while the rest is contributed by milieu factors. Recently, a new, unexpected player has entered the ranks of MS-triggering or facilitating elements: the human gut microbiota. In this review, we summarize the present knowledge of microbial effects on formation of a pathogenic autoreactive immune response targeting the distant central nervous system and delineate the approaches, both in people with MS and in MS animal models, which have led to this concept. Finally, we propose that a tight combination of investigations of human patients with studies of suitable animal models is the best strategy to functionally characterize disease-associated microbiota and thereby contribute to deciphering pathogenesis of a complex human disease.
Insights
The human gut microbiota may play a role in triggering multiple sclerosis (MS). Research combining human studies and animal models is key to understanding how gut microbes influence MS pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Microbiome Research
- Genetics
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) impacts over 2.8 million globally, with uneven distribution.
- Genetic factors account for only 20-30% of MS risk; environmental factors are significant.
- The human gut microbiota is emerging as a key environmental factor in MS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on the gut microbiota's role in MS pathogenesis.
- To summarize research approaches in human patients and animal models.
- To propose a combined strategy for investigating disease-associated microbiota.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on gut microbiota and MS.
- Analysis of studies involving human patients with MS.
- Examination of findings from MS animal models.
Main Results:
- The gut microbiota can influence the development of pathogenic autoreactive immune responses.
- These immune responses target the central nervous system, a hallmark of MS.
- Studies highlight the interplay between host genetics and microbial factors in MS.
Conclusions:
- A combined approach using human patient data and animal models is crucial.
- This integrated strategy will help functionally characterize disease-associated microbiota.
- Understanding the gut microbiome's role is vital for deciphering complex MS pathogenesis.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
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...
01:23Anatomy 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...
01:30Inflammatory 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...
01:27Inflammatory Bowel Disease I: Ulcerative Colitis
Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, encompasses a group of disorders characterized by chronic inflammation or ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract.
Risk Factors
The exact cause of IBD remains unclear, although it is believed to be due to a mix of genetic, environmental, microbial, and immune factors. Genetic factors are significant in determining susceptibility to IBD, with family history being a critical risk factor. Individuals with a first-degree relative who has IBD are at...
01:30Inflammatory Bowel Disease II: Crohn's Disease
Inflammatory bowel disease, commonly known as IBD, refers to a collection of disorders that lead to persistent inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. The two types of IBD are ulcerative colitis, which impacts the colon, and Crohn's disease, which can involve any part of the gastrointestinal segment.
Crohn's disease
Crohn's disease is a chronic, systemic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that predominantly affects the gastrointestinal tract. It is marked by...