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Altered Microbiome Signature in Cushing's Syndrome Persists Beyond Remission
German Rubinstein1, Ilias Lagkouvardos2, Evangelia Intze2
1Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Innenstadt Klinikum der Universität München, 80336 Munich, Germany.
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism
|December 23, 2024
Summary
Patients with Cushing's syndrome (CS) exhibit a distinct gut microbiome imbalance. This dysbiosis persists even after successful surgery, suggesting potential for probiotic therapies to restore gut health.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Microbiome Research
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Cushing's syndrome (CS) is characterized by hypercortisolism, leading to metabolic and cardiovascular issues.
- The gut microbiome is known to be affected by various pathological conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of chronic endogenous cortisol excess on the human gut microbiome.
- To compare the gut microbial profiles of patients with CS to control and reference groups.
Main Methods:
- 18 patients with endogenous CS provided stool samples during active disease and after remission.
- Control groups included 36 patients without CS and 108 healthy lean students.
- 16S rRNA gene sequencing (V3/V4 region) and bioinformatic analysis were performed.
Main Results:
- Patients with active CS showed a significantly disturbed gut microbiome compared to lean healthy individuals.
- Microbial dysbiosis in CS patients persisted even after achieving biochemical remission post-surgery.
Conclusions:
- Cushing's syndrome is associated with a unique and altered gut microbiome composition.
- The persistent dysbiosis suggests the gut microbiome as a potential therapeutic target for interventions like probiotics to aid recovery.
Keywords:
16S rRNAACTHadrenalcortisolfecal communityglucocorticoidsgut microbiomehypercortisolismstressMore Related Videos
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