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Updated: Jun 23, 2026

Microbiota Analysis Using Two-step PCR and Next-generation 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing
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What is the association between the microbiome and cognition? An umbrella review protocol

Joshua Z Goldenberg1,2, Traver J Wright3, Richard D Batson1,2

  • 1Helfgott Research Institute, National University of Natural Medicine, Portland, Oregon, USA.

BMJ Open
|June 18, 2024
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Cognitive impairment and microbial dysbiosis often co-occur in various conditions, suggesting a shared mechanism. This umbrella review synthesizes existing research to explore these microbiome-cognition links.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Microbiome research
  • Systematic review methodology

Background:

  • Cognitive impairment is linked to conditions like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and long-COVID.
  • Microbial dysbiosis is frequently observed in these same clinical conditions.
  • The co-occurrence suggests a potential shared mechanism and therapeutic target.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To conduct an umbrella review of systematic reviews.
  • To summarize and synthesize findings on cognitive and microbiome outcomes.
  • To explore potential parallels across healthy and clinical populations.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive search of multiple databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane, Epistemonikos) and grey literature.
  • Independent screening, data abstraction, and quality assessment (AMSTAR 2) by duplicate reviewers.
  • Narrative synthesis of findings, with evidence certainty assessed using GRADE criteria.

Main Results:

  • This section is to be filled upon completion of the review.
  • Synthesis of existing systematic reviews on the topic.
  • Identification of common themes and potential mechanisms linking cognition and the microbiome.

Conclusions:

  • This section is to be filled upon completion of the review.
  • Potential implications for understanding and treating cognitive impairment.
  • Highlighting the need for further research into microbiome-based interventions.
Keywords:
Delirium & cognitive disordersDementiaGASTROENTEROLOGYSystematic Review

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