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Updated: Jun 20, 2025
Microbiota Analysis Using Two-step PCR and Next-generation 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing
Published on: October 15, 2019
Mediterranean diet and associations with the gut microbiota and pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis using trivariate
Ali I Mirza1,2, Feng Zhu1, Natalie Knox3,4
1Department of Medicine (Neurology), The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
Background:
The interplay between diet and the gut microbiota in multiple sclerosis (MS) is poorly understood. We aimed to assess the interrelationship between diet, the gut microbiota, and MS.
Methods:
We conducted a case-control study including 95 participants (44 pediatric-onset MS cases, 51 unaffected controls) enrolled from the Canadian Pediatric Demyelinating Disease Network study. All had completed a food frequency questionnaire ≤21-years of age, and 59 also provided a stool sample.
Results:
Here we show that a 1-point increase in a Mediterranean diet score is associated with 37% reduced MS odds (95%CI: 10%-53%). Higher fiber and iron intakes are also associated with reduced MS odds. Diet, not MS, explains inter-individual gut microbiota variation. Several gut microbes abundances are associated with both the Mediterranean diet score and having MS, and these microbes are potential mediators of the protective associations of a healthier diet.
Conclusions:
Our findings suggest that the potential interaction between diet and the gut microbiota is relevant in MS.
Insights
A Mediterranean diet, rich in fiber and iron, may reduce the risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS). Diet influences gut microbes, potentially mediating this protective effect in pediatric MS.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Microbiome research
- Nutritional science
Background:
- The gut microbiota's role in multiple sclerosis (MS) pathogenesis remains unclear.
- Understanding the diet-MS-microbiota axis is crucial for developing preventative strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between dietary patterns, gut microbiota composition, and the risk of pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 44 pediatric MS cases and 51 controls.
- Dietary intake assessed via food frequency questionnaires.
- Gut microbiota analyzed from stool samples.
Main Results:
- A higher Mediterranean diet score correlated with a 37% reduction in MS odds.
- Increased intake of fiber and iron also showed a protective association.
- Dietary patterns, rather than MS status, primarily drove gut microbiota variations.
- Specific gut microbes were linked to both diet and MS, suggesting a mediating role.
Conclusions:
- Diet and gut microbiota interactions are significant in the context of multiple sclerosis.
- Dietary interventions, particularly those promoting a Mediterranean diet, may offer a novel approach for MS prevention or management.
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