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Updated: Apr 24, 2026
Microbiota Analysis Using Two-step PCR and Next-generation 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing
Published on: October 15, 2019
Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Akkermansia muciniphila: driving the multiple sclerosis-a systematic review
Somayeh Ahmadi1,2, Farzaneh Rafie Sedaghat1,2,3, Yalda Mohammadzadeh Asl3
1Students Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
Abstract:
The gut microbiota (GM) is a complex microbial ecosystem, and its alteration contributes to the development of several diseases including multiple sclerosis (MS). Progressive research concerning neurodegenerative diseases and GM reveals that GM dysbiosis has been linked to fostering the development and progression of MS. Among existing bacteria, F.prausnitzii and A.muciniphila are key species implicated in this disease. Thus, the present study systematically reviewed and synthesized the research on the involvement of F. prausnitzii and A. muciniphila in MS patients versus healthy individuals. We systematically searched PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases for relevant published articles from January 2010 till January 2023. Out of 400 articles, 16 met the required criteria. The included research investigations originated from the US, Germany, Norway, Egypt, Iran, Brazil, China, the UK, and Romania. Most publications reported decreased levels of F. prausnitzii and increased levels of A. muciniphila in MS patients compared to controls. This review underscored the importance of the F. prausnitzii and A. muciniphila in MS, which could explain the chronic inflammation that characterizes this disease and not only help in understanding its etiology and progression but also open new avenues for the treatment strategies focusing on gut health. Moreover, understanding the role of F. prausnitzii and A. muciniphila could lead to novel biomarkers for early detection and progression monitoring MS.
Insights
Gut microbiota alterations, particularly changes in F. prausnitzii and A. muciniphila, are linked to multiple sclerosis (MS). This review highlights their altered levels in MS patients, suggesting therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Neuroimmunology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- The gut microbiota (GM) is a complex ecosystem implicated in various diseases.
- Gut dysbiosis is increasingly linked to the development and progression of neurodegenerative conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Specific bacterial species, notably F. prausnitzii and A. muciniphila, are identified as key players in MS pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and synthesize existing research on the roles of F. prausnitzii and A. muciniphila in multiple sclerosis.
- To compare the prevalence and levels of these bacteria in MS patients versus healthy individuals.
- To explore the implications of these findings for understanding MS etiology and developing novel therapeutic strategies.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search conducted across PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases.
- Inclusion criteria focused on studies published between January 2010 and January 2023, comparing F. prausnitzii and A. muciniphila in MS patients and controls.
- Analysis of 16 selected studies from diverse international origins.
Main Results:
- Most studies reported a decrease in F. prausnitzii levels in individuals with MS compared to healthy controls.
- Conversely, an increase in A. muciniphila levels was frequently observed in MS patients.
- These alterations suggest a significant association between these specific gut bacteria and the disease state.
Conclusions:
- F. prausnitzii and A. muciniphila play a crucial role in the pathophysiology of MS, potentially contributing to chronic inflammation.
- Understanding their involvement offers insights into MS etiology and progression.
- Targeting these gut bacteria presents promising avenues for novel treatment strategies and biomarker development for MS.
