Potential effects of probiotics on atherosclerosis

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Microbiome Research
• Nephrology

Background:

• Atherosclerosis incidence is rising, indicating gaps in understanding its pathophysiology and treatment.
• The gut microbiome's role in atherosclerosis is increasingly recognized, with gut-derived uremic toxins (GDUTs) as potential contributors.
• Elevated plasma levels of GDUTs like trimethylamine n-oxide (TMAO), p-cresyl sulfate, and indoxyl sulfate correlate with reduced kidney function and higher cardiovascular risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the potential of probiotics in managing atherosclerosis.
• To explore probiotics as a therapeutic strategy for reducing GDUTs.
• To highlight the relevance for patients with non-traditional risk factors or impaired renal function.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing scientific literature on probiotics, gut microbiome, GDUTs, and atherosclerosis.
• Analysis of in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrating bacterial clearance of GDUTs.
• Focus on the potential of orally administered probiotics targeting the intestinal tract.

Main Results:

• Some beneficial gut bacteria demonstrate the ability to metabolize or clear GDUTs.
• Probiotics represent a viable strategy to modulate the gut microbiome and reduce circulating GDUT levels.
• Targeting GDUTs via probiotics may mitigate atherosclerosis progression.

Conclusions:

• Reducing circulating GDUTs is a potential therapeutic goal for atherosclerosis patients.
• Orally administered probiotics offer a promising avenue for decreasing GDUTs and benefiting atherosclerosis management.
• This approach holds particular promise for individuals with impaired renal function or atypical atherosclerosis risk factors.