Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 10, 2025
Quantitative 3D In Silico Modeling q3DISM of Cerebral Amyloid-beta Phagocytosis in Rodent Models of Alzheimer's Disease
Published on: December 26, 2016
Gut Microbiome in Alzheimer's Disease: from Mice to Humans
Chang Liang1,2, Resel Pereira3, Yan Zhang1
1Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
Abstract:
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent type of dementia, but its etiopathogenesis is not yet fully understood. Recent preclinical studies and clinical evidence indicate that changes in the gut microbiome could potentially play a role in the accumulation of amyloid beta. However, the relationship between gut dysbiosis and AD is still elusive. In this review, the potential impact of the gut microbiome on AD development and progression is discussed. Pre-clinical and clinical literature exploring changes in gut microbiome composition is assessed, which can contribute to AD pathology including increased amyloid beta deposition and cognitive impairment. The gut-brain axis and the potential involvement of metabolites produced by the gut microbiome in AD are also highlighted. Furthermore, the potential of antibiotics, prebiotics, probiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation, and dietary interventions as complementary therapies for the management of AD is summarized. This review provides valuable insights into potential therapeutic strategies to modulate the gut microbiome in AD.
Insights
Investigating the gut microbiome
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Microbiology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia, with unclear origins.
- Emerging evidence suggests a link between gut microbiome alterations and amyloid-beta accumulation in AD.
- The precise relationship between gut dysbiosis and AD pathogenesis remains to be fully elucidated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the potential influence of the gut microbiome on Alzheimer's disease development and progression.
- To assess preclinical and clinical findings on gut microbiome composition changes related to AD pathology.
- To highlight the role of the gut-brain axis and microbial metabolites in AD.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of preclinical and clinical studies.
- Analysis of research on gut microbiome composition and its association with AD.
- Examination of the gut-brain axis and microbial metabolite involvement.
- Summary of potential therapeutic interventions targeting the gut microbiome.
Main Results:
- Gut dysbiosis may contribute to AD pathology, including amyloid-beta deposition and cognitive decline.
- The gut-brain axis and microbial metabolites are implicated in AD.
- Various interventions show potential for modulating the gut microbiome in AD management.
Conclusions:
- The gut microbiome is a significant factor in Alzheimer's disease.
- Modulating the gut microbiome offers promising therapeutic avenues for AD.
- Further research into gut-brain axis interactions is crucial for AD treatment.
