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Acupuncture modulates the microbiota-gut-brain axis: a novel therapeutic strategy for amnestic mild cognitive
Hang Xing1, Wen-Long Hu1, Sheng-Yong Bao1
1Department of Rehabilitation, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, China.
Abstract:
Amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) represents a critical prodromal stage of Alzheimer's disease (AD), yet effective therapeutic interventions to prevent or delay this conversion remain an unmet clinical need. Growing evidence implicates dysregulation of the microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA)-a complex bidirectional communication network involving neural, immune, and endocrine pathways-in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders. This perspective proposes that acupuncture, as a multi-target therapeutic approach, may modulate gut microbiota composition and restore MGBA homeostasis, thereby potentially decelerating the progression from aMCI to AD. A systematic understanding of the precise mechanisms through which acupuncture influences the MGBA carries substantial implications for both neuroscience and clinical practice. Future investigations should prioritize the elucidation of these mechanisms and the generation of robust clinical evidence through well-controlled experimental designs.
Insights
Acupuncture may help slow Alzheimer's progression by positively influencing the gut microbiota and the microbiota-gut-brain axis in individuals with mild cognitive impairment.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Microbiology
- Integrative Medicine
Background:
- Amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) is a precursor to Alzheimer's disease (AD), with no effective preventative treatments.
- The microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA), a complex communication network, is increasingly implicated in neurodegenerative disease.
- Dysregulation of the MGBA may contribute to the progression of aMCI to AD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose acupuncture as a potential therapeutic strategy for aMCI.
- To explore how acupuncture might modulate the gut microbiota and restore MGBA homeostasis.
- To highlight the need for understanding acupuncture's mechanisms in neurodegeneration.
Main Methods:
- This is a perspective piece, not an experimental study.
- It synthesizes existing evidence on the MGBA and acupuncture's effects.
- It proposes a theoretical framework for acupuncture's action.
Main Results:
- Acupuncture may influence gut microbiota composition.
- Acupuncture could potentially restore balance in the MGBA.
- This modulation may decelerate the progression from aMCI to AD.
Conclusions:
- Acupuncture presents a potential multi-target approach to manage aMCI.
- Further research is crucial to elucidate the precise mechanisms of acupuncture on the MGBA.
- Well-designed clinical trials are needed to validate these findings.
