Gut Microbiota, Bacterial Translocation, and Stroke: Current Knowledge and Future Directions.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Immunology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Stroke is a leading cause of death, disability, and dementia worldwide, with limited treatment options.
• Post-stroke immunosuppression and neurological dysfunction increase the risk of stroke-associated infections (SAIs).
• Existing treatments for stroke, such as fibrinolysis and thrombectomy, do not address infection risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent evidence on the microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA) alterations following stroke.
• To explore the role of bacterial translocation (BT) in the development of SAIs.
• To discuss potential therapeutic strategies targeting MGBA and BT to reduce post-stroke complications.

Main Methods:

• Review of experimental studies and recent literature on stroke pathophysiology.
• Analysis of the link between gut microbiota, intestinal permeability, and bacterial translocation.
• Synthesis of current understanding of SAIs and their connection to MGBA.

Main Results:

• Stroke induces significant alterations in the gut microbiota composition and increases intestinal permeability.
• Bacterial translocation from the gut is a key mechanism contributing to SAIs.
• SAIs are associated with poorer prognosis and increased mortality in stroke patients.

Conclusions:

• The microbiota-gut-brain axis plays a critical role in post-stroke complications, particularly SAIs.
• Targeting gut dysbiosis and bacterial translocation presents a promising avenue for novel stroke therapies.
• Interventions aimed at restoring gut barrier function and microbiota balance could improve stroke patient outcomes.