The Multinutrient Fortasyn Connect Influences Gut Microbiota and Intestinal Function in Early Alzheimer's Disease

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Neuroscience
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Nutritional supplementation is a potential strategy for early Alzheimer's disease (AD) management.
• The gut microbiome plays a role in AD via the microbiota-gut-brain axis.
• Fortasyn Connect is a multinutrient formulation investigated for its effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of Fortasyn Connect on the gut microbiota in early AD.
• To assess changes in microbial composition, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, and inflammatory markers.
• To explore effects on gut-brain homeostasis and systemic nutrient levels.

Main Methods:

• Dual approach: in vitro dynamic gastrointestinal simulator (simgi®) and an observational study in early AD patients.
• Inoculation of simgi® with AD patient feces for host-independent analysis.
• Analysis of fecal samples from supplemented and non-supplemented AD patients (n=22).

Main Results:

• In vitro: increased Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, and SCFA production.
• In patients: higher Bifidobacterium and Christensenellaceae abundance, reduced inflammatory markers (calprotectin, myeloperoxidase), and increased butyrate.
• Fecal analyses revealed improved lipid digestion, increased secretory IgA, and modulated host proteins; systemic iron, folate, and B12 levels increased.

Conclusions:

• Fortasyn Connect beneficially modulates the gut ecosystem in early AD.
• Supplementation impacts immune-metabolic pathways relevant to AD through the gut-brain axis.
• This study provides evidence for targeting gut-brain axis mechanisms in aging individuals with early AD.