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A groundbreaking study has found that the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in the development of multiple sclerosis (MS), an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. The findings may provide insight into why some individuals develop MS while others do not.
The gut microbiome consists of trillions of bacteria and microorganisms residing in the digestive system, significantly influencing overall health. Researchers from Yale University, US, have identified key bacterial differences in the gut of MS patients compared to healthy individuals.
The study revealed that individuals with MS had a reduced number of gut bacteria coated with immunoglobulin A (IgA)—a vital antibody responsible for immune response.
“The fact that fewer bacteria were coated with IgA in patients with MS suggests a fundamental disconnect in host-microbe interactions,” said Erin Longbrake, associate professor of neurology and the study’s principal investigator.
She further noted that environmental factors might alter gut bacteria, increasing the risk of developing MS.
Key Findings of the Study
The research, published in Neurology Neuroimmunology and Neuroinflammation, examined 43 newly diagnosed MS patients who had not yet received immune therapy. Their gut microbiome was compared to that of 42 healthy individuals.
- Faecalibacterium species were less abundant in MS patients.
- Monoglobus species were more abundant in untreated MS patients.
Additionally, 19 MS patients provided a second stool sample six months after starting B-cell depletion therapy, a treatment that eliminates immune cells contributing to autoimmune diseases. The study found that after treatment, the gut microbiomes of these MS patients began to resemble those of healthy individuals.
“This gives us clues into the mechanisms behind how B-cell depletion therapy works to treat MS,” Longbrake added.
Implications for MS Treatment and Prevention
These findings could help scientists better understand the role of gut bacteria in MS development and treatment. By identifying specific microbiome changes linked to MS, researchers may pave the way for new therapies targeting gut bacteria to manage or even prevent the disease.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Readers are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals before making any changes to their health or treatment plans.
