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Exploring the mycobiota in multiple sclerosis: its influence on disease development and progression
Ane Otaegui-Chivite1,2, Miriam Gorostidi-Aicua1,2, Laura Martins-Almeida1,2
1Group of Neuroimmunilogy, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, San Sebastián, Spain.
Frontiers in Immunology
|August 12, 2025
Summary
This study reveals distinct gut fungal (mycobiota) profiles in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, with specific fungi like Malassezia linked to increased disability. These findings suggest a role for the mycobiota in MS pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated disorder with known genetic and environmental influences.
- The gut microbiota's role in MS is increasingly recognized, but the fungal component (mycobiota) remains understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the gut mycobiota in individuals with MS.
- To identify fungal taxa associated with MS risk factors, clinical severity, and dietary patterns.
Main Methods:
- Characterization of gut mycobiota in MS patients and controls from the Basque Country.
- Analysis of associations between fungal taxa, MS risk factors, clinical severity, and dietary patterns.
Main Results:
- MS patients exhibited higher fungal diversity and richness, with enrichment of Saccharomyces, Torulaspora, and Malassezia.
- Malassezia was strongly associated with increased disability, and HLA-DRB1*1501 allele influenced mycobiota composition.
- Interactions between plasma biomarkers (chitotriosidase, calprotectin) and fungi were observed, with dietary fats impacting mycobiota composition differently in MS patients.
Conclusions:
- The gut mycobiota plays a potential role in MS pathogenesis and progression.
- Fungal biomarkers, alongside genetic and dietary factors, may enhance MS understanding and inform targeted therapies.
