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Li Q, Gu Y, Liang J, Yang Z, Qin J. A long journey to treat epilepsy with the gut microbiota. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1386205. [PMID: 38988662 PMCID: PMC11233807 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1386205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder that affects approximately 10.5 million children worldwide. Approximately 33% of affected patients exhibit resistance to all available antiseizure medications, but the underlying mechanisms are unknown and there is no effective treatment. Increasing evidence has shown that an abnormal gut microbiota may be associated with epilepsy. The gut microbiota can influence the function of the brain through multiple pathways, including the neuroendocrine, neuroimmune, and autonomic nervous systems. This review discusses the interactions between the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract (the brain-gut axis) and the role of the gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of epilepsy. However, the exact gut microbiota involved in epileptogenesis is unknown, and no consistent results have been obtained based on current research. Moreover, the target that should be further explored to identify a novel antiseizure drug is unclear. The role of the gut microbiota in epilepsy will most likely be uncovered with the development of genomics technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinrui Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- Epilepsy Center, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Youyu Gu
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- Epilepsy Center, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jingjing Liang
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- Epilepsy Center, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhixian Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- Epilepsy Center, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jiong Qin
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
- Epilepsy Center, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
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Waris A, Asim M, Ullah A, Alhumaydhi FA. Various pharmacological agents in the pipeline against intractable epilepsy. Arch Pharm (Weinheim) 2024:e2400229. [PMID: 38767508 DOI: 10.1002/ardp.202400229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Epilepsy is a noncommunicable chronic neurological disorder affecting people of all ages, with the highest prevalence in low and middle-income countries. Despite the pharmacological armamentarium, the plethora of drugs in the market, and other treatment options, 30%-35% of individuals still show resistance to the current medication, termed intractable epilepsy/drug resistance epilepsy, which contributes to 50% of the mortalities due to epilepsy. Therefore, the development of new drugs and agents is needed to manage this devastating epilepsy. We reviewed the pipeline of drugs in "ClinicalTrials. gov," which is the federal registry of clinical trials to identify drugs and other treatment options in various phases against intractable epilepsy. A total of 31 clinical trials were found regarding intractable epilepsy. Among them, 48.4% (15) are about pharmacological agents, of which 26.6% are in Phase 1, 60% are in Phase 2, and 13.3% are in Phase 3. The mechanism of action or targets of the majority of these agents are different and are more diversified than those of the approved drugs. In this article, we summarized various pharmacological agents in clinical trials, their backgrounds, targets, and mechanisms of action for the treatment of intractable epilepsy. Treatment options other than pharmacological ones, such as devices for brain stimulation, ketogenic diets, gene therapy, and others, are also summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Waris
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Muhammad Asim
- Department of Neurosciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health (CRMH), Hong Kong SAR
| | - Ata Ullah
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Fahad A Alhumaydhi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
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Riva A, Sahin E, Volpedo G, Petretto A, Lavarello C, Di Sapia R, Barbarossa D, Zaniani NR, Craparotta I, Barbera MC, Sezerman U, Vezzani A, Striano P, Ravizza T. Identification of an epilepsy-linked gut microbiota signature in a pediatric rat model of acquired epilepsy. Neurobiol Dis 2024; 194:106469. [PMID: 38485093 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2024.106469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
A dysfunctional gut microbiota-brain axis is emerging as a potential pathogenic mechanism in epilepsy, particularly in pediatric forms of epilepsy. To add new insights into gut-related changes in acquired epilepsy that develops early in life, we used a multi-omics approach in a rat model with a 56% incidence of epilepsy. The presence of spontaneous seizures was assessed in adult rats (n = 46) 5 months after status epilepticus induced by intra-amygdala kainate at postnatal day 13, by 2 weeks (24/7) ECoG monitoring. Twenty-six rats developed epilepsy (Epi) while the remaining 20 rats (No-Epi) did not show spontaneous seizures. At the end of ECoG monitoring, all rats and their sham controls (n = 20) were sacrificed for quantitative histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses of the gut structure, glia and macrophages, as well as RTqPCR analysis of inflammation/oxidative stress markers. By comparing Epi, No-Epi rats, and sham controls, we found structural, cellular, and molecular alterations reflecting a dysfunctional gut, which were specifically associated with epilepsy. In particular, the villus height-to-crypt depth ratio and number of Goblet cells were reduced in the duodenum of Epi rats vs both No-Epi rats and sham controls (p < 0.01). Villus height and crypt depth in the duodenum and jejunum (p < 0.01) were increased in No-Epi vs both Epi and sham controls. We also detected enhanced Iba1-positive macrophages, together with increased IL1b and NFE2L2 transcripts and TNF protein, in the small intestine of Epi vs both No-Epi and sham control rats (p < 0.01), denoting the presence of inflammation and oxidative stress. Astroglial GFAP-immunostaining was similar in all experimental groups. Metagenomic analysis in the feces collected 5 months after status epilepticus showed that the ratio of two dominant phyla (Bacteroidota-to-Firmicutes) was similarly increased in Epi and No-Epi rats vs sham control rats. Notably, the relative abundance of families, genera, and species associated with SCFA production differed in Epi vs No-Epi rats, describing a bacterial imprint associated with epilepsy. Furthermore, Epi rats showed a blood metabolic signature characterized by changes in lipid metabolism compared to both No-Epi and sham control rats. Our study provides new evidence of long-term gut alterations, along with microbiota-related metabolic changes, occurring specifically in rats that develop epilepsy after brain injury early in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Riva
- IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genova, Italy; Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Università degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Eray Sahin
- Acıbadem University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Greta Volpedo
- IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genova, Italy; Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Università degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | | | | | - Rossella Di Sapia
- Department of Acute Brain and Cardiovascular Injury, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Davide Barbarossa
- Department of Acute Brain and Cardiovascular Injury, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Nasibeh Riahi Zaniani
- Department of Acute Brain and Cardiovascular Injury, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Ilaria Craparotta
- Department of Oncology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Barbera
- Department of Oncology, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Uğur Sezerman
- Acıbadem University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Annamaria Vezzani
- Department of Acute Brain and Cardiovascular Injury, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Pasquale Striano
- IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genova, Italy; Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Università degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Teresa Ravizza
- Department of Acute Brain and Cardiovascular Injury, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy.
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Diaz-Marugan L, Rutsch A, Kaindl AM, Ronchi F. The impact of microbiota and ketogenic diet interventions in the management of drug-resistant epilepsy. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2024; 240:e14104. [PMID: 38314929 DOI: 10.1111/apha.14104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
AIM Drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) is a neurological disorder characterized by uncontrolled seizures. It affects between 10%-40% of the patients with epilepsy worldwide. Drug-resistant patients have been reported to have a different microbiota composition compared to drug-sensitive patients and healthy controls. Importantly, fecal microbiota transplantations (FMTs), probiotic and dietary interventions have been shown to be able to reduce seizure frequency and improve the quality of life in drug-resistant patients. The classic ketogenic diet (KD) and its modifications may reduce seizures in DRE in some patients, whereas in others they do not. The mechanisms mediating the dietary effects remain elusive, although it is known that gut microbes play an important role in transmitting dietary effects to the host. Indeed, specific commensal microbes differ even between responders and non-responders to KD treatment. METHODS In this narrative mini-review, we summarize what is known about the gut microbiota changes and ketogenic diets with special focus on patients with DRE. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS By highlighting unanswered questions and by suggesting future research directions, we map the route towards future improvement of successful DRE therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Diaz-Marugan
- Institute of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology (I-MIDI), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Andrina Rutsch
- Institute of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology (I-MIDI), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Angela M Kaindl
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
- Center for Chronically Sick Children, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Francesca Ronchi
- Institute of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology (I-MIDI), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
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Zhu H, Wang W, Li Y. The interplay between microbiota and brain-gut axis in epilepsy treatment. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1276551. [PMID: 38344171 PMCID: PMC10853364 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1276551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The brain-gut axis plays a vital role in connecting the cognitive and emotional centers of the brain with the intricate workings of the intestines. An imbalance in the microbiota-mediated brain-gut axis extends far beyond conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and obesity, playing a critical role in the development and progression of various neurological disorders, including epilepsy, depression, Alzheimer's disease (AD), and Parkinson's disease (PD). Epilepsy, a brain disorder characterized by unprovoked seizures, affects approximately 50 million people worldwide. Accumulating evidence suggests that rebuilding the gut microbiota through interventions such as fecal microbiota transplantation, probiotics, and ketogenic diets (KD) can benefit drug-resistant epilepsy. The disturbances in the gut microbiota could contribute to the toxic side effects of antiepileptic drugs and the development of drug resistance in epilepsy patients. These findings imply the potential impact of the gut microbiota on epilepsy and suggest that interventions targeting the microbiota, such as the KD, hold promise for managing and treating epilepsy. However, the full extent of the importance of microbiota in epilepsy treatment is not yet fully understood, and many aspects of this field remain unclear. Therefore, this article aims to provide an overview of the clinical and animal evidence supporting the regulatory role of gut microbiota in epilepsy, and of potential pathways within the brain-gut axis that may be influenced by the gut microbiota in epilepsy. Furthermore, we will discuss the recent advancements in epilepsy treatment, including the KD, fecal microbiota transplantation, and antiseizure drugs, all from the perspective of the gut microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanxiao Zhu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dali University, Dali, China
- Clinical Medical School, Dali University, Dali, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Neurobiology Laboratory, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yun Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dali University, Dali, China
- Clinical Medical School, Dali University, Dali, China
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Wan L, Shi X, Yan H, Liang Y, Liu X, Zhu G, Zhang J, Wang J, Wang M, Yang G. Abnormalities in Clostridioides and related metabolites before ACTH treatment may be associated with its efficacy in patients with infantile epileptic spasm syndrome. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14398. [PMID: 37553527 PMCID: PMC10805391 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is the first-line treatment of infantile epileptic spasm syndrome (IESS). Its reported effectiveness varies, and our current understanding regarding the role of gut microbiota composition in IESS treatment response is limited. This study assessed the microbiome-metabolome association to understand the role and mechanism of gut microbiota composition in IESS treatment outcomes. METHODS Children with IESS undergoing ACTH treatment were enrolled. Pre-treatment stool and serum samples were collected for 16S rRNA gene sequencing and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, respectively. The children were divided into "responsive" and "non-responsive" groups, and gut microbiota and serum metabolome differences were analyzed. RESULTS Of the 30 patients with IESS, 14 responded to ACTH and 16 did not. The "non-responsive" group had larger maleficent Clostridioides and Peptoclostridium_phage_p630P populations (linear discriminant analysis >2; false discovery rate q < 0.05). Ten metabolites were upregulated (e.g., xanthurenic acid) and 15 were downregulated (e.g., vanillylmandelic acid) (p < 0.05). Association analysis of the gut microbiome and serum metabolome revealed that Clostridioides and Peptoclostridium_phage_p630P2 were positively correlated with linoleic and xanthurenic acids, while Clostridioides was negatively correlated with vanillylmandelic acid (p < 0.05). A classifier using differential gut bacteria and metabolites achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.906 to distinguish responders from non-responders. CONCLUSION This study found significant differences in pre-treatment gut microbiota and serum metabolome between children with IESS who responded to ACTH and those who did not. Additional exploration may provide valuable information for treatment selection and potential interventions. Our results suggest that varying ACTH responses in patients with IESS may be associated with increased gut Clostridioides bacteria and kynurenine pathway alteration, but additional experiments are needed to verify this association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Wan
- Senior Department of PediatricsThe Seventh Medical Center of PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
- Department of PediatricsThe First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
- Medical School of Chinese People's Liberation ArmyBeijingChina
| | - Xiuyu Shi
- Senior Department of PediatricsThe Seventh Medical Center of PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
- Department of PediatricsThe First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
- Medical School of Chinese People's Liberation ArmyBeijingChina
- The Second School of Clinical MedicineSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Huimin Yan
- Senior Department of PediatricsThe Seventh Medical Center of PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
- Department of PediatricsThe First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
- Medical School of Chinese People's Liberation ArmyBeijingChina
| | - Yan Liang
- Senior Department of PediatricsThe Seventh Medical Center of PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
- Department of PediatricsThe First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
- Medical School of Chinese People's Liberation ArmyBeijingChina
| | - Xinting Liu
- Senior Department of PediatricsThe Seventh Medical Center of PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
- Department of PediatricsThe First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
- Medical School of Chinese People's Liberation ArmyBeijingChina
| | - Gang Zhu
- Senior Department of PediatricsThe Seventh Medical Center of PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
- Department of PediatricsThe First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
- Medical School of Chinese People's Liberation ArmyBeijingChina
| | - Jing Zhang
- Senior Department of PediatricsThe Seventh Medical Center of PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
- Department of PediatricsThe First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
- Medical School of Chinese People's Liberation ArmyBeijingChina
| | - Jing Wang
- Senior Department of PediatricsThe Seventh Medical Center of PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
- Department of PediatricsThe First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
- Medical School of Chinese People's Liberation ArmyBeijingChina
| | - Mingbang Wang
- Microbiome Therapy Center, South China Hospital, Medical School, Shenzhen UniversityShenzhenChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Birth Defects, Division of NeonatologyChildren's Hospital of Fudan University, National Center for Children's HealthShanghaiChina
- Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical EngineeringMedical School, Shenzhen UniversityShenzhenChina
| | - Guang Yang
- Senior Department of PediatricsThe Seventh Medical Center of PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
- Department of PediatricsThe First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
- Medical School of Chinese People's Liberation ArmyBeijingChina
- The Second School of Clinical MedicineSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
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Mazandarani M, Lashkarbolouk N, Ejtahed HS, Qorbani M. Does the ketogenic diet improve neurological disorders by influencing gut microbiota? A systematic review. Nutr J 2023; 22:61. [PMID: 37981693 PMCID: PMC10658738 DOI: 10.1186/s12937-023-00893-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this systematic review is to evaluate the changes in gut microbiota (GM) induced by the Ketogenic Diets (KD) as a potential underlying mechanism in the improvement of neurological diseases. METHODS A comprehensive search was conducted on three electronic databases, including PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Scopus until December 2022. The inclusion criteria were studies that described any changes in GM after consuming KD in neurological patients. Full text of studies such as clinical trials and cohorts were added. The quality assessment of cohort studies was conducted using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale and for the clinical trials using the Cochrane Collaboration tool. The search, screening, and data extraction were performed by two researchers independently. RESULTS Thirteen studies examining the effects of the KD on the GM in neurological patients were included. Studies have shown that KD improves clinical outcomes by reducing disease severity and recurrence rates. An increase in Proteobacteria phylum, Escherichia, Bacteroides, Prevotella, Faecalibacterium, Lachnospira, Agaricus, and Mrakia genera and a reduction in Firmicutes, and Actinobacteria phyla, Eubacterium, Cronobacter, Saccharomyces, Claviceps, Akkermansia and Dialister genera were reported after KD. Studies showed a reduction in concentrations of fecal short-chain fatty acids and branched-chain fatty acids and an increase in beta Hydroxybutyrate, trimethylamine N-oxide, and N-acetylserotonin levels after KD. CONCLUSION The KD prescribed in neurological patients has effectively altered the GM composition and GM-derived metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Mazandarani
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Narges Lashkarbolouk
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Hanieh-Sadat Ejtahed
- Obesity and Eating Habits Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mostafa Qorbani
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran.
- Chronic Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Mengoli M, Conti G, Fabbrini M, Candela M, Brigidi P, Turroni S, Barone M. Microbiota-gut-brain axis and ketogenic diet: how close are we to tackling epilepsy? MICROBIOME RESEARCH REPORTS 2023; 2:32. [PMID: 38045924 PMCID: PMC10688818 DOI: 10.20517/mrr.2023.24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
The microbiota-gut-brain axis refers to the intricate bidirectional communication between commensal microorganisms residing in the digestive tract and the central nervous system, along neuroendocrine, metabolic, immune, and inflammatory pathways. This axis has been suggested to play a role in several neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy, paving the way for microbiome-based intervention strategies for the mitigation and treatment of symptoms. Epilepsy is a multifaceted neurological condition affecting more than 50 million individuals worldwide, 30% of whom do not respond to conventional pharmacological therapies. Among the first-hand microbiota modulation strategies, nutritional interventions represent an easily applicable option in both clinical and home settings. In this narrative review, we summarize the mechanisms underlying the microbiota-gut-brain axis involvement in epilepsy, discuss the impact of antiepileptic drugs on the gut microbiome, and then the impact of a particular dietary pattern, the ketogenic diet, on the microbiota-gut-brain axis in epileptic patients. The investigation of the microbiota response to non-pharmacological therapies is an ever-expanding field with the potential to allow the design of increasingly accessible and successful intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariachiara Mengoli
- Microbiomics Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Gabriele Conti
- Microbiomics Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
- Unit of Microbiome Science and Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna 40126, Italy
| | - Marco Fabbrini
- Microbiomics Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
- Unit of Microbiome Science and Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna 40126, Italy
| | - Marco Candela
- Unit of Microbiome Science and Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna 40126, Italy
| | - Patrizia Brigidi
- Microbiomics Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Silvia Turroni
- Unit of Microbiome Science and Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna 40126, Italy
| | - Monica Barone
- Microbiomics Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
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Potschka H, Fischer A, Löscher W, Volk HA. Pathophysiology of drug-resistant canine epilepsy. Vet J 2023; 296-297:105990. [PMID: 37150317 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2023.105990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Drug resistance continues to be a major clinical problem in the therapeutic management of canine epilepsies with substantial implications for quality of life and survival times. Experimental and clinical data from human medicine provided evidence for relevant contributions of intrinsic severity of the disease as well as alterations in pharmacokinetics and -dynamics to failure to respond to antiseizure medications. In addition, several modulatory factors have been identified that can be associated with the level of therapeutic responses. Among others, the list of potential modulatory factors comprises genetic and epigenetic factors, inflammatory mediators, and metabolites. Regarding data from dogs, there are obvious gaps in knowledge when it comes to our understanding of the clinical patterns and the mechanisms of drug-resistant canine epilepsy. So far, seizure density and the occurrence of cluster seizures have been linked with a poor response to antiseizure medications. Moreover, evidence exists that the genetic background and alterations in epigenetic mechanisms might influence the efficacy of antiseizure medications in dogs with epilepsy. Further molecular, cellular, and network alterations that may affect intrinsic severity, pharmacokinetics, and -dynamics have been reported. However, the association with drug responsiveness has not yet been studied in detail. In summary, there is an urgent need to strengthen clinical and experimental research efforts exploring the mechanisms of resistance as well as their association with different etiologies, epilepsy types, and clinical courses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidrun Potschka
- Institute of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany.
| | - Andrea Fischer
- Clinic of Small Animal Medicine, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Löscher
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany; Center for Systems Neuroscience, Hannover, Germany
| | - Holger A Volk
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany
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10
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Wang Y, Zhuo Z, Wang H. Epilepsy, gut microbiota, and circadian rhythm. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1157358. [PMID: 37273718 PMCID: PMC10232836 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1157358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, relevant studies have found changes in gut microbiota (GM) in patients with epilepsy. In addition, impaired sleep and circadian patterns are common symptoms of epilepsy. Moreover, the types of seizures have a circadian rhythm. Numerous reports have indicated that the GM and its metabolites have circadian rhythms. This review will describe changes in the GM in clinical and animal studies under epilepsy and circadian rhythm disorder, respectively. The aim is to determine the commonalities and specificities of alterations in GM and their impact on disease occurrence in the context of epilepsy and circadian disruption. Although clinical studies are influenced by many factors, the results suggest that there are some commonalities in the changes of GM. Finally, we discuss the links among epilepsy, gut microbiome, and circadian rhythms, as well as future research that needs to be conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhihong Zhuo
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Childhood Epilepsy and Immunology, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial Children's Neurological Disease Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Center, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Huaili Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Childhood Epilepsy and Immunology, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial Children's Neurological Disease Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Center, Zhengzhou, China
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11
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Türay S, Cangür Ş, Kahraman G, Kayabaşı E, Çetiner ÖF, Aydın B, Öztürk CE. Can the Gut Microbiota Serve as a Guide to the Diagnosis and Treatment of Childhood Epilepsy? Pediatr Neurol 2023; 145:11-21. [PMID: 37245274 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2023.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To investigate the activity of the gut-brain axis in the pathogenesis of childhood epilepsy and to define biomarkers capable of assisting with determining new strategies in that context. METHODS Twenty children with epilepsy of "unknown etiology" and seven healthy controls in the same age group were included in the study. The groups were compared using a questionnaire. Stool samples were stored in tubes containing DNA/RNA Shield (Zymo Research) with a sterile swab. Sequencing was carried out using the MiSeq System (Illumina). The 16S rRNA sequencing of samples using next-generation sequencing involved V4 variable region polymerase chain reaction amplification concluded by 2 × 250-bp paired-end sequencing of amplicons and at least 50,000 reads (>Q30) per sample. DNA sequences were classified at the genus level using the Kraken program. Bioinformatics and statistical analysis were then performed. RESULTS Individuals' gut microbiota relative abundance values differed between the groups at the genus, order, class, family, and phylum levels. Flavihumibacter, Niabella, Anoxybacillus, Brevundimonas, Devosia, and Delftia were seen only in the control group, whereas Megamonas and Coriobacterium were observed only in the epilepsy group. The linear discriminant analysis effect size method identified 33 taxa as important in differentiating the groups. CONCLUSIONS We think that bacterial varieties (such as Megamonas and Coriobacterium) that differ between the two groups can be employed as useful biomarkers in the diagnosis and follow-up of epileptic patients. We also predict that, in addition to epilepsy treatment protocols, the restoration of eubiotic microbiota may increase the success of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sevim Türay
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Duzce University Medical Faculty, Duzce, Turkey; Duzce University Faculty of Medicine, Duzce, Turkey.
| | - Şengül Cangür
- Duzce University Faculty of Medicine, Duzce, Turkey; Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, Duzce University Medical Faculty, Duzce, Turkey
| | - Gözde Kahraman
- Duzce University Faculty of Medicine, Duzce, Turkey; Department of Medical Microbiology, Duzce University Medical Faculty, Duzce, Turkey
| | - Eda Kayabaşı
- Duzce University Faculty of Medicine, Duzce, Turkey; Department of Medical Microbiology, Duzce University Medical Faculty, Duzce, Turkey
| | - Ömer Faruk Çetiner
- Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey; Istanbul Tip Capa Campus, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Burak Aydın
- Traditional and Complementary Medicine Research Department, Istanbul Health Sciences University, Istanbul, Turkey; Istanbul Health Sciences University Haydarpasa Campus, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Cihadiye Elif Öztürk
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology, Istanbul Arel University, Istanbul, Turkey; Istanbul Arel University, Istanbul, Turkey
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12
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Džidić-Krivić A, Kusturica J, Sher EK, Selak N, Osmančević N, Karahmet Farhat E, Sher F. Effects of intestinal flora on pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drugs. Drug Metab Rev 2023; 55:126-139. [PMID: 36916327 DOI: 10.1080/03602532.2023.2186313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
Gut microbiota is known as unique collection of microorganisms (including bacteria, archaea, eukaryotes and viruses) that exist in a complex environment of the gut. Recently, this has become one of the most popular areas of research in medicine because this plays not only an important role in disease development, but gut microbiota also influences drug pharmacokinetics. These alterations in drug pharmacokinetic pathways and drug concentration in plasma and blood often lead to an increase in the incidence of toxicological events in patients. This review aims to present current knowledge of the most commonly used drugs in clinical practice and their dynamic interplay with the host's gut microbiota as well as the mechanisms underlying these metabolic processes and the consequent effect on their therapeutic efficacy and safety. These new findings set a foundation for the development of personalized treatments specific to each metabolism, maximizing drugs' therapeutic effects and minimizing the side effects because they are one of the major limiting factors in treating patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amina Džidić-Krivić
- Zenica Cantonal Hospital, Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina.,International Society of Engineering Science and Technology, Nottingham, UK
| | - Jasna Kusturica
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Sarajevo, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Emina Karahmet Sher
- Department of Biosciences, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Nejra Selak
- Dom zdravlja Zenica, Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | | | - Esma Karahmet Farhat
- International Society of Engineering Science and Technology, Nottingham, UK.,Department of Food and Nutrition Research, Faculty of Food Technology, Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
| | - Farooq Sher
- Department of Engineering, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
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13
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Łukasiuk K, Lasoń W. Emerging Molecular Targets for Anti-Epileptogenic and Epilepsy Modifying Drugs. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032928. [PMID: 36769250 PMCID: PMC9917847 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The pharmacological treatment of epilepsy is purely symptomatic. Despite many decades of intensive research, causal treatment of this common neurologic disorder is still unavailable. Nevertheless, it is expected that advances in modern neuroscience and molecular biology tools, as well as improved animal models may accelerate designing antiepileptogenic and epilepsy-modifying drugs. Epileptogenesis triggers a vast array of genomic, epigenomic and transcriptomic changes, which ultimately lead to morphological and functional transformation of specific neuronal circuits resulting in the occurrence of spontaneous convulsive or nonconvulsive seizures. Recent decades unraveled molecular processes and biochemical signaling pathways involved in the proepileptic transformation of brain circuits including oxidative stress, apoptosis, neuroinflammatory and neurotrophic factors. The "omics" data derived from both human and animal epileptic tissues, as well as electrophysiological, imaging and neurochemical analysis identified a plethora of possible molecular targets for drugs, which could interfere with various stages of epileptogenetic cascade, including inflammatory processes and neuroplastic changes. In this narrative review, we briefly present contemporary views on the neurobiological background of epileptogenesis and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of some more promising molecular targets for antiepileptogenic pharmacotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Łukasiuk
- The Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 3 Pasteur St., 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Władysław Lasoń
- Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Smętna 12, 31-343 Kraków, Poland
- Correspondence:
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14
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Ouyang Y, Chen Y, Wang G, Song Y, Zhao H, Xiao B, Yang Z, Long L. Genetically proxied gut microbiota, gut metabolites with risk of epilepsy and the subtypes: A bi-directional Mendelian randomization study. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:994270. [PMID: 36407759 PMCID: PMC9669914 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.994270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background An increasing number of observational studies have revealed an association among the gut microbiota, gut metabolites, and epilepsy. However, this association is easily influenced by confounders such as diet, and the causality of this association remains obscure. Methods Aiming to explore the causal relationship and ascertain specific gut microbe taxa for epilepsy, we conducted a bi-directional Mendelian randomization (MR) study based on the genome-wide association study (GWAS) data of epilepsy from the International League Against Epilepsy, with the gut microbiota GWAS results from MiBioGen, and summary-level GWAS data of gut microbiota-dependent metabolites trimethylamine N-oxide and its predecessors. Results Nine phyla, 15 classes, 19 orders, 30 families, and 96 genera were analyzed. A suggestive association of host-genetic-driven increase in family Veillonellaceae with a higher risk of childhood absence epilepsy (odds ratio [OR]: 1.033, confidential interval [CI]: 1.015–1.051, PIVW = 0.0003), class Melainabacteria with a lower risk of generalized epilepsy with tonic-clonic seizures (OR = 0.986, CI = 0.979–0.994, PIVW = 0.0002), class Betaproteobacteria (OR = 0.958, CI = 0.937–0.979, PIVW = 0.0001), and order Burkholderiales (OR = 0.960, CI = 0.937–0.984, PIVW = 0.0010) with a lower risk of juvenile myoclonic epilepsy were identified after multiple-testing correction. Our sensitivity analysis revealed no evidence of pleiotropy, reverse causality, weak instrument bias, or heterogeneity. Conclusion This is the first MR analysis to explore the potential causal relationship among the gut microbiota, metabolites, and epilepsy. Four gut microbiota features (two class levels, one order level, and one family level) were identified as potential interventional targets for patients with childhood absence epilepsy, generalized epilepsy with tonic-clonic seizures, and juvenile myoclonic epilepsy. Previous associations in numerous observational studies may had been interfered by confounders. More rigorous studies were needed to ascertain the relationship among the gut microbiota, metabolites, and epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhen Ouyang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Center for Epileptic Disease of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yu Chen
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ge Wang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Center for Epileptic Disease of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yanmin Song
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Emergency, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Haiting Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Center for Epileptic Disease of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Bo Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Center for Epileptic Disease of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhuanyi Yang
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Zhuanyi Yang,
| | - Lili Long
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Center for Epileptic Disease of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Lili Long,
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15
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Wang X, Yang C, Yang L, Zhang Y. Modulating the gut microbiota ameliorates spontaneous seizures and cognitive deficits in rats with kainic acid-induced status epilepticus by inhibiting inflammation and oxidative stress. Front Nutr 2022; 9:985841. [PMID: 36105577 PMCID: PMC9465080 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.985841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Epilepsy is a highly prevalent neurological disease whose treatment has always been challenging. Hence, it is crucial to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying epilepsy inhibition. Inflammation and oxidative stress are important pathophysiological changes in epilepsy that contribute to the development of spontaneous seizures and cognitive deficits. In recent years, altered gut microbiota composition was found to be involved in epilepsy, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Modulation of the gut microbiota showed a positive impact on the brain by regulating oxidative stress and inflammation. Hence, this study evaluated the effect of modulating gut dysbiosis by treating epileptic rats with prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics and investigated the underlying molecular mechanism. Materials and methods Epileptic rat models were established by injecting 1 μl of kainic acid (KA, 0.4 μg/μl) into the right amygdalae. The rats were divided into Sham, KA, KA+prebiotic [inulin:1 g/kg body weight (bw)/day], KA+probiotics (10 × 109cfu of each bacteria/kg, bw/day), and KA+synbiotic groups (1:1 mixture of prebiotics and probiotics). Seizures were monitored, and cognitive function was assessed in all rats. Biochemical indicators, namely, oxidative stress, DNA damage, glutamate levels, and inflammation markers, were also determined. Results The KA-induced status epilepticus (SE) rats exhibited spontaneous seizures and cognitive deficits. This was accompanied by the activation of glial cells, the inflammatory response (IL-1 β, IL-6, and TNF-α), lipid peroxidation (MDA), DNA damage (8-OHdG), the release of glutamate, and a decline in total antioxidant ability (GSH). These changes were alleviated by partial treatment with prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics. Conclusion Modulating gut dysbiosis ameliorates spontaneous seizures and cognitive deficits in rats with KA-induced status epilepticus. The underlying mechanism may potentially involve the inhibition of inflammation and oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Wang
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chunyu Yang
- Department of Neurology, Dehui People's Hospital, Jilin, China
| | - Liu Yang
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yongbo Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yongbo Zhang
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16
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Özcan E, Lum GR, Hsiao EY. Interactions between the gut microbiome and ketogenic diet in refractory epilepsy. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2022; 167:217-249. [PMID: 36427956 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2022.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological diseases globally, afflicting approximately 50 million people worldwide. While many antiepileptic drugs exist, an estimated one-third of individuals do not respond to available medications. The high fat, low carbohydrate ketogenic diet (KD) has been used to treat refractory epilepsy in cases when existing antiepileptic drugs fail. However, there are many variations of the KD, each of which varies greatly in its efficacy and side effects. Increasing evidence suggests that interactions between the KD and gut microbiome may modulate the effects of the diet on host physiology. Herein, we review existing evidence of microbiome differences in epileptic individuals compared to healthy controls. We highlight in particular both clinical and animal studies revealing effects of the KD on the composition and function of the microbiome, as well as proof-of-concept animal studies that implicate the microbiome in the antiseizure effects of the KD. We further synthesize findings suggesting that variations in clinical KD formulations may differentially influence host physiology and discuss the gut microbial interactions with specific dietary factors that may play a role. Overall, understanding interactions between the gut microbiota and specific nutritional components of clinical KDs could reveal foundational mechanisms that underlie the effectiveness, variability, and side effects of different KDs, with the potential to lead to precision nutritional and microbiome-based approaches to treat refractory epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ezgi Özcan
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States.
| | - Gregory R Lum
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Elaine Y Hsiao
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States.
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17
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Abstract
Drug-resistant epilepsy is associated with poor health outcomes and increased economic burden. In the last three decades, various new antiseizure medications have been developed, but the proportion of people with drug-resistant epilepsy remains relatively unchanged. Developing strategies to address drug-resistant epilepsy is essential. Here, we define drug-resistant epilepsy and emphasize its relationship to the conceptualization of epilepsy as a symptom complex, delineate clinical risk factors, and characterize mechanisms based on current knowledge. We address the importance of ruling out pseudoresistance and consider the impact of nonadherence on determining whether an individual has drug-resistant epilepsy. We then review the principles of epilepsy drug therapy and briefly touch upon newly approved and experimental antiseizure medications.
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18
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Bacillus subtilis Plays a Role in the Inhibition of Transporter ABCB1 in Caco-2 Cells. Epilepsy Res 2022; 183:106925. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2022.106925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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19
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Li X, Wang Q, Wu D, Zhang DW, Li SC, Zhang SW, Chen X, Li W. The effect of a novel anticonvulsant chemical Q808 on gut microbiota and hippocampus neurotransmitters in pentylenetetrazole-induced seizures in rats. BMC Neurosci 2022; 23:7. [PMID: 35114941 PMCID: PMC8812211 DOI: 10.1186/s12868-022-00690-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The gut microbiota can modulate brain function and behavior and is increasingly recognized as an important factor in mediating the risk of epilepsy and the effects of seizure interventions. Drug therapy is one of the factors that influence the composition of the intestinal microbiota. Q808 is an innovative chemical with strong anticonvulsant activity and low neurotoxicity. However, studies evaluating the effect of Q808 on gut microbial communities are lacking. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the anticonvulsant activity of Q808 on a pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)—induced seizure model and analyze and compare the intestinal microbiota composition of non-PTZ vehicle control group, the PTZ-induced seizure model rats with and without Q808, through 16S rDNA sequencing. Neurotransmitter levels in the hippocampus were quantitatively estimated using HPLC–MS. Results The results suggest that Q808 effectively alleviates seizures in chronic PTZ-kindled model rats. Additionally, based on the analyzed abundance of the gut microbiota, dysbacteriosis of model rats was found to be corrected after Q808 treatment at the phylum level. The unique bacterial taxa (e.g., Lactobacillus) that are associated with acetylcholine production, were significantly increased. Several short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)-producing bacteria, including Roseburia, Alloprevptella, Prevotellaceae_NK3B31_group, Prevotellaceae_UCG-001, and Prevotella_9, were enriched. In the hippocampus, the contents of acetylcholine increased, whereas the levels of 3-methoxytyramine, glutamine, and 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid (5-HIAA) decreased after Q808 treatment. Conclusions This study demonstrates that Q808 can be used to remodel the dysbiosis of the gut microbiome and influence neurotransmitter levels in the hippocampus of PTZ-induced seizure model rats. We hope that these novel findings prompt further research on the interaction between gut microbiota and seizures and the mechanism of Q808. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12868-022-00690-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Li
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Qing Wang
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences of Jilin Province, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Di Wu
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences of Jilin Province, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Dian-Wen Zhang
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences of Jilin Province, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | | | - Si-Wei Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Xia Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.
| | - Wei Li
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences of Jilin Province, Changchun, Jilin, China.
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20
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Ilhan ZE, Brochard V, Lapaque N, Auvin S, Lepage P. Exposure to anti-seizure medications impact growth of gut bacterial species and subsequent host response. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 167:105664. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
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21
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Boeri L, Donnaloja F, Campanile M, Sardelli L, Tunesi M, Fusco F, Giordano C, Albani D. Using integrated meta-omics to appreciate the role of the gut microbiota in epilepsy. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 164:105614. [PMID: 35017031 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The way the human microbiota may modulate neurological pathologies is a fascinating matter of research. Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder, which has been largely investigated in correlation with microbiota health and function. However, the mechanisms that regulate this apparent connection are scarcely defined, and extensive effort has been conducted to understand the role of microbiota in preventing and reducing epileptic seizures. Intestinal bacteria seem to modulate the seizure frequency mainly by releasing neurotransmitters and inflammatory mediators. In order to elucidate the complex microbial contribution to epilepsy pathophysiology, integrated meta-omics could be pivotal. In fact, the combination of two or more meta-omics approaches allows a multifactorial study of microbial activity within the frame of disease or drug treatments. In this review, we provide information depicting and supporting the use of multi-omics to study the microbiota-epilepsy connection. We described different meta-omics analyses (metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, metaproteomics and metabolomics), focusing on current technical challenges in stool collection procedures, sample extraction methods and data processing. We further discussed the current advantages and limitations of using the integrative approach of multi-omics in epilepsy investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Boeri
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "Giulio Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milan, Italy.
| | - Francesca Donnaloja
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "Giulio Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milan, Italy.
| | - Marzia Campanile
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "Giulio Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milan, Italy.
| | - Lorenzo Sardelli
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "Giulio Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milan, Italy.
| | - Marta Tunesi
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "Giulio Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milan, Italy.
| | - Federica Fusco
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "Giulio Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milan, Italy.
| | - Carmen Giordano
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "Giulio Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milan, Italy.
| | - Diego Albani
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, via Mario Negri 2, 20156 Milan, Italy.
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22
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Ceccarani C, Viganò I, Ottaviano E, Redaelli MG, Severgnini M, Vignoli A, Borghi E. Is Gut Microbiota a Key Player in Epilepsy Onset? A Longitudinal Study in Drug-Naive Children. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:749509. [PMID: 34926315 PMCID: PMC8677705 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.749509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Microbiota alterations have been recently investigated in individuals with epilepsy and in other neurological diseases as environmental factors that play a role, by acting through the gut-brain axis, in the pathological process. Most studies focus on the contribution of bacterial communities in refractory epilepsy and suggest a beneficial role of ketogenic diet in modulating the gut microbiota and seizure occurrence. However, they do not evaluate whether epilepsy itself alters the gut microbiota in these patients or if the gut microbial communities could contribute as a seizure trigger. In this pilot study, we performed 16S rRNA sequencing and investigated the gut microbial communities of eight children at their seizure onset and after anti-seizure was started (one year follow-up) and we compared microbial data with seven healthy children, age- and sex-matched. In drug-naive subjects, we observed a microbial signature that shared several features with those reported in refractory epilepsy, such as an increased abundance in Akkermansia spp. and Proteobacteria and a decreased relative abundance in Faecalibacterium spp.We suggest that a bacterial-mediated proinflammatory milieu could contribute to seizure occurrence in children with new onset of epilepsy, as already reported for individuals with drug-resistant epilepsy, and that it could vary during treatment in those who are drug-responsive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Ceccarani
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Segrate, Italy
| | - Ilaria Viganò
- Epilepsy Centre, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Santi Paolo Carlo, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Maria Gaia Redaelli
- Epilepsy Centre, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Santi Paolo Carlo, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Severgnini
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Segrate, Italy
| | - Aglaia Vignoli
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale Grande Ospedale Metropolitano (ASST GOM) Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Borghi
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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23
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Ding M, Lang Y, Shu H, Shao J, Cui L. Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis and Epilepsy: A Review on Mechanisms and Potential Therapeutics. Front Immunol 2021; 12:742449. [PMID: 34707612 PMCID: PMC8542678 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.742449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The gut-brain axis refers to the bidirectional communication between the gut and brain, and regulates intestinal homeostasis and the central nervous system via neural networks and neuroendocrine, immune, and inflammatory pathways. The development of sequencing technology has evidenced the key regulatory role of the gut microbiota in several neurological disorders, including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and multiple sclerosis. Epilepsy is a complex disease with multiple risk factors that affect more than 50 million people worldwide; nearly 30% of patients with epilepsy cannot be controlled with drugs. Interestingly, patients with inflammatory bowel disease are more susceptible to epilepsy, and a ketogenic diet is an effective treatment for patients with intractable epilepsy. Based on these clinical facts, the role of the microbiome and the gut-brain axis in epilepsy cannot be ignored. In this review, we discuss the relationship between the gut microbiota and epilepsy, summarize the possible pathogenic mechanisms of epilepsy from the perspective of the microbiota gut-brain axis, and discuss novel therapies targeting the gut microbiota. A better understanding of the role of the microbiota in the gut-brain axis, especially the intestinal one, would help investigate the mechanism, diagnosis, prognosis evaluation, and treatment of intractable epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Li Cui
- Department of Neurology, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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The role of microbiota-gut-brain axis in neuropsychiatric and neurological disorders. Pharmacol Res 2021; 172:105840. [PMID: 34450312 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 233] [Impact Index Per Article: 77.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Emerging evidence indicates that the gut microbiota play a crucial role in the bidirectional communication between the gut and the brain suggesting that the gut microbes may shape neural development, modulate neurotransmission and affect behavior, and thereby contribute to the pathogenesis and/or progression of many neurodevelopmental, neuropsychiatric, and neurological conditions. This review summarizes recent data on the role of microbiota-gut-brain axis in the pathophysiology of neuropsychiatric and neurological disorders including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorders, Parkinson's disease, migraine, and epilepsy. Also, the involvement of microbiota in gut disorders co-existing with neuropsychiatric conditions is highlighted. We discuss data from both in vivo preclinical experiments and clinical reports including: (1) studies in germ-free animals, (2) studies exploring the gut microbiota composition in animal models of diseases or in humans, (3) studies evaluating the effects of probiotic, prebiotic or antibiotic treatment as well as (4) the effects of fecal microbiota transplantation.
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Shabbir U, Tyagi A, Elahi F, Aloo SO, Oh DH. The Potential Role of Polyphenols in Oxidative Stress and Inflammation Induced by Gut Microbiota in Alzheimer's Disease. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:1370. [PMID: 34573002 PMCID: PMC8472599 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10091370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Gut microbiota (GM) play a role in the metabolic health, gut eubiosis, nutrition, and physiology of humans. They are also involved in the regulation of inflammation, oxidative stress, immune responses, central and peripheral neurotransmission. Aging and unhealthy dietary patterns, along with oxidative and inflammatory responses due to gut dysbiosis, can lead to the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, especially Alzheimer's disease (AD). Although the exact mechanism between AD and GM dysbiosis is still unknown, recent studies claim that secretions from the gut can enhance hallmarks of AD by disturbing the intestinal permeability and blood-brain barrier via the microbiota-gut-brain axis. Dietary polyphenols are the secondary metabolites of plants that possess anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties and can ameliorate gut dysbiosis by enhancing the abundance of beneficial bacteria. Thus, modulation of gut by polyphenols can prevent and treat AD and other neurodegenerative diseases. This review summarizes the role of oxidative stress, inflammation, and GM in AD. Further, it provides an overview on the ability of polyphenols to modulate gut dysbiosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation against AD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Deog-Hwan Oh
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 200-701, Korea; (U.S.); (A.T.); (F.E.); (S.O.A.)
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