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Ameen AO, Nielsen SW, Kjær MW, Andersen JV, Westi EW, Freude KK, Aldana BI. Metabolic preferences of astrocytes: Functional metabolic mapping reveals butyrate outcompetes acetate. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2024:271678X241270457. [PMID: 39340267 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x241270457] [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] [Indexed: 09/30/2024]
Abstract
Disruptions to the gut-brain-axis have been linked to neurodegenerative disorders. Of these disruptions, reductions in the levels of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), like butyrate, have been observed in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Butyrate supplementation in mice has shown promise in reducing neuroinflammation, amyloid-β accumulation, and enhancing memory. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. To address this, we investigated the impact of butyrate on energy metabolism in mouse brain slices, primary cultures of astrocytes and neurons and in-vivo by dynamic isotope labelling with [U-13C]butyrate and [1,2-13C]acetate to map metabolism via mass spectrometry. Metabolic competition assays in cerebral cortical slices revealed no competition between butyrate and the ketone body, β-hydroxybutyrate, but competition with acetate. Astrocytes favoured butyrate metabolism compared to neurons, suggesting that the astrocytic compartment is the primary site of butyrate metabolism. In-vivo metabolism investigated in the 5xFAD mouse, an AD pathology model, showed no difference in 13C-labelling of TCA cycle metabolites between wild-type and 5xFAD brains, but butyrate metabolism remained elevated compared to acetate in both groups, indicating sustained uptake and metabolism in 5xFAD mice. Overall, these findings highlight the role of astrocytes in butyrate metabolism and the potential use of butyrate as an alternative brain fuel source.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishat O Ameen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sebastian W Nielsen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Martin W Kjær
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens V Andersen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Emil W Westi
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kristine K Freude
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Blanca I Aldana
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Pereira LTG, Vilela WR, Bellozi PMQ, Engel DF, de Paula GC, de Andrade RR, Mortari MR, de Melo Teixeira M, Coleine C, Figueiredo CP, de Bem AF, Amato AA. Fecal microbiota transplantation ameliorates high-fat diet-induced memory impairment in mice. J Neurochem 2024; 168:2893-2907. [PMID: 38934224 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.16156] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Gut dysbiosis is linked to metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases and comprises a plausible link between high-fat diet (HFD) and brain dysfunction. Here we show that gut microbiota modulation by either antibiotic treatment for 5 weeks or a brief 3-day fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) regimen from low-fat (control) diet-fed mice decreased weight gain, adipose tissue hypertrophy, and glucose intolerance induced by HFD in C57BL/6 male mice. Notably, gut microbiota modulation by FMT completely reversed impaired recognition memory induced by HFD, whereas modulation by antibiotics had less pronounced effect. Improvement in recognition memory by FMT was accompanied by decreased HFD-induced astrogliosis in the hippocampal cornu ammonis region. Gut microbiome composition analysis indicated that HFD diminished microbiota diversity compared to control diet, whereas FMT partially restored the phyla diversity. Our findings reinforce the role of the gut microbiota on HFD-induced cognitive impairment and suggest that modulating the gut microbiota may be an effective strategy to prevent metabolic and cognitive dysfunction associated with unfavorable dietary patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wembley Rodrigues Vilela
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Paula Maria Quaglio Bellozi
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, School of Health Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Daiane Fátima Engel
- School of Pharmacy, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | | | - Márcia Renata Mortari
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Physiological Sciences, Biology Institute, University of Brasilia, Federal District, Brazil
| | | | - Claudia Coleine
- Department of Ecological and Biological Sciences, University of Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Cláudia Pinto Figueiredo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Andreza Fabro de Bem
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
- Brazilian National Institute of Science and Technology on Neuroimmunomodulation, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Angélica Amorim Amato
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, School of Health Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
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Kim Y, Lim J, Oh J. Taming neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease: The protective role of phytochemicals through the gut-brain axis. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 178:117277. [PMID: 39126772 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117277] [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: 05/24/2024] [Revised: 08/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive degenerative neurological condition characterized by cognitive decline, primarily affecting memory and logical thinking, attributed to amyloid-β plaques and tau protein tangles in the brain, leading to neuronal loss and brain atrophy. Neuroinflammation, a hallmark of AD, involves the activation of microglia and astrocytes in response to pathological changes, potentially exacerbating neuronal damage. The gut-brain axis is a bidirectional communication pathway between the gastrointestinal and central nervous systems, crucial for maintaining brain health. Phytochemicals, natural compounds found in plants with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, such as flavonoids, curcumin, resveratrol, and quercetin, have emerged as potential modulators of this axis, suggesting implications for AD prevention. Intake of phytochemicals influences the gut microbial composition and its metabolites, thereby impacting neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in the brain. Consumption of phytochemical-rich foods may promote a healthy gut microbiota, fostering the production of anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective substances. Early dietary incorporation of phytochemicals offers a non-invasive strategy for modulating the gut-brain axis and potentially reducing AD risk or delaying its onset. The exploration of interventions targeting the gut-brain axis through phytochemical intake represents a promising avenue for the development of preventive or therapeutic strategies against AD initiation and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoonsu Kim
- Department of Integrative Biology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinkyu Lim
- School of Food Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jisun Oh
- New Drug Development Center, Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation, Daegu 41061, Republic of Korea.
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Kuźniar J, Kozubek P, Czaja M, Leszek J. Correlation between Alzheimer's Disease and Gastrointestinal Tract Disorders. Nutrients 2024; 16:2366. [PMID: 39064809 PMCID: PMC11279885 DOI: 10.3390/nu16142366] [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: 07/02/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia globally. The pathogenesis is multifactorial and includes deposition of amyloid-β in the central nervous system, presence of intraneuronal neurofibrillary tangles and a decreased amount of synapses. It remains uncertain what causes the progression of the disease. Nowadays, it is suggested that the brain is connected to the gastrointestinal tract, especially the enteric nervous system and gut microbiome. Studies have found a positive association between AD and gastrointestinal diseases such as periodontitis, Helicobacter pylori infection, inflammatory bowel disease and microbiome disorders. H. pylori and its metabolites can enter the CNS via the oropharyngeal olfactory pathway and may predispose to the onset and progression of AD. Periodontitis may cause systemic inflammation of low severity with high levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and neutrophils. Moreover, lipopolysaccharide from oral bacteria accompanies beta-amyloid in plaques that form in the brain. Increased intestinal permeability in IBS leads to neuronal inflammation from transference. Chronic inflammation may lead to beta-amyloid plaque formation in the intestinal tract that spreads to the brain via the vagus nerve. The microbiome plays an important role in many bodily functions, such as nutrient absorption and vitamin production, but it is also an important factor in the development of many diseases, including Alzheimer's disease. Both the quantity and diversity of the microbiome change significantly in patients with AD and even in people in the preclinical stage of the disease, when symptoms are not yet present. The microbiome influences the functioning of the central nervous system through, among other things, the microbiota-gut-brain axis. Given the involvement of the microbiome in the pathogenesis of AD, antibiotic therapy, probiotics and prebiotics, and faecal transplantation are being considered as possible therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Kuźniar
- Student Scientific Group of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-369 Wroclaw, Poland; (P.K.); (M.C.)
| | - Patrycja Kozubek
- Student Scientific Group of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-369 Wroclaw, Poland; (P.K.); (M.C.)
| | - Magdalena Czaja
- Student Scientific Group of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-369 Wroclaw, Poland; (P.K.); (M.C.)
| | - Jerzy Leszek
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-369 Wroclaw, Poland;
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Zhu Y, Self WK, Holtzman DM. An emerging role for the gut microbiome in tauopathy. Neurotherapeutics 2024:e00423. [PMID: 38964948 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurot.2024.e00423] [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: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Tauopathies constitute a group of neurodegenerative diseases characterized by abnormal aggregation of the protein tau, progressive neuronal and synaptic loss, and eventual cognitive and motor impairment. In this review, we will highlight the latest efforts investigating the intricate interplay between the gut microbiome and tauopathies. We discuss the physiological interactions between the microbiome and the brain as well as clinical and experimental evidence that suggests that the presence of tauopathy alters the composition of gut microbiota. We explore both animal and human studies that define causative relationships between the gut microbiome and tauopathy by directly manipulating or transferring gut microbiota. This review highlights future directions into identifying and mechanistically elucidating microbial species causally linked to tauopathies, with an ultimate goal of devising therapeutic targets towards the gut microbiome to treat tauopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiyang Zhu
- Department of Neurology, Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Knight Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA, 63110
| | - Wade K Self
- Department of Neurology, Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Knight Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA, 63110
| | - David M Holtzman
- Department of Neurology, Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Knight Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA, 63110.
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Bostick JW, Connerly TJ, Thron T, Needham BD, de Castro Fonseca M, Kaddurah-Daouk R, Knight R, Mazmanian SK. The microbiome shapes immunity in a sex-specific manner in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.07.593011. [PMID: 38766238 PMCID: PMC11100721 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.07.593011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Preclinical studies reveal that the microbiome broadly affects immune responses and the deposition and/or clearance of amyloid-beta (Aβ) in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Whether the microbiome shapes central and peripheral immune profiles in AD models remains unknown. METHODS We examined adaptive immune responses in two mouse models containing AD-related genetic predispositions (3xTg and 5xFAD) in the presence or absence of the microbiome. RESULTS T and B cells were altered in brain-associated and systemic immune tissues between genetic models and wildtype mice, with earlier signs if inflammation in female mice. Systemic immune responses were modulated by the microbiome and differed by sex. Further, the absence of a microbiome in germ-free mice resulted in reduced cognitive deficits, primarily in female mice. DISCUSSION These data reveal sexual dimorphism in early signs of inflammation and the effects of the microbiome, and highlight a previously unrecognized interaction between sex and the microbiome in mouse models of AD. Research in Context Systemic review: We reviewed the literature related to Alzheimer's disease (AD), inflammation, and the microbiome using PubMed. We cite several studies that demonstrate the influence of the microbiome on inflammation and cognitive performance in both animal models and humans. However, the mechanisms linking immunity to AD are not well understood. Interpretation: Using two well-established mouse models of AD, we found that the microbiome does not strongly influence the onset of inflammation in brain-draining lymph nodes; rather, it largely modulates systemic immune responses, local cytokine production, and cognitive performance. Notably, the inflammatory state in mice was affected by sex, and this sex effect differed between local and systemic tissues and mice with or without a microbiome. Future directions: Our work identified a sex- and microbiome-mediated effect on inflammation and cognitive performance. Future studies may focus on microbiome-dependent mechanisms that intersect with sex hormone and immune responses to determine peripheral effects on AD outcomes. Highlights Adaptive immunity is activated at early ages and differentially by sex in mouse models of AD.Inflammation in 5xFAD mice is characterized by increased IL-17A-producing T cells.Inflammation in 3xTg mice is characterized by increased cytokine responses in males, but attenuated cytokine responses in female mice.Longitudinal immune responses differ between 3xTg mice and 5xFAD mice.Both 3xTg and 5xFAD female mice show improved learning and cognition in the absence of a microbiome.
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Luo YX, Yang LL, Yao XQ. Gut microbiota-host lipid crosstalk in Alzheimer's disease: implications for disease progression and therapeutics. Mol Neurodegener 2024; 19:35. [PMID: 38627829 PMCID: PMC11020986 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-024-00720-0] [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: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Trillions of intestinal bacteria in the human body undergo dynamic transformations in response to physiological and pathological changes. Alterations in their composition and metabolites collectively contribute to the progression of Alzheimer's disease. The role of gut microbiota in Alzheimer's disease is diverse and complex, evidence suggests lipid metabolism may be one of the potential pathways. However, the mechanisms that gut microbiota mediate lipid metabolism in Alzheimer's disease pathology remain unclear, necessitating further investigation for clarification. This review highlights the current understanding of how gut microbiota disrupts lipid metabolism and discusses the implications of these discoveries in guiding strategies for the prevention or treatment of Alzheimer's disease based on existing data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Xi Luo
- Department of Rehabilitation, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ling-Ling Yang
- Department of Rehabilitation, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiu-Qing Yao
- Department of Rehabilitation, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
- Chongqing Municipality Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Medicine, Chongqing, China.
- Department of Rehabilitation Therapy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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Chen Y, Shi Y, Liang C, Min Z, Deng Q, Yu R, Zhang J, Chang K, Chen L, Yan K, Wang C, Tan Y, Wang X, Chen J, Hua Q. MicrobeTCM: A comprehensive platform for the interactions of microbiota and traditional Chinese medicine. Pharmacol Res 2024; 201:107080. [PMID: 38272335 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Thanks to the advancements in bioinformatics, drugs, and other interventions that modulate microbes to treat diseases have been emerging continuously. In recent years, an increasing number of databases related to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) or gut microbes have been established. However, a database combining the two has not yet been developed. To accelerate TCM research and address the traditional medicine and micro ecological system connection between short board, we have developed the most comprehensive micro-ecological database of TCM. This initiative includes the standardization of the following advantages: (1) A repeatable process achieved through the standardization of a retrieval strategy to identify literature. This involved identifying 419 experiment articles from PubMed and six authoritative databases; (2) High-quality data integration achieved through double-entry extraction of literature, mitigating uncertainties associated with natural language extraction; (3) Implementation of a similar strategy aiding in the prediction of mechanisms of action. Leveraging drug similarity, target entity similarity, and known drug-target entity association, our platform enables the prediction of the effects of a new herb or acupoint formulas using the existing data. In total, MicrobeTCM includes 171 diseases, 725 microbes, 1468 herb-formulas, 1032 herbs, 15780 chemical compositions, 35 acupoint-formulas, and 77 acupoints. For further exploration, please visit https://www.microbetcm.com.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufeng Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Life Science, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Yu Shi
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Life Science, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Chengbang Liang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Life Science, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Zhuochao Min
- School of Information and Software Engineering, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China; School of Zoology, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences Tel Aviv Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Qiqi Deng
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Life Science, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Rui Yu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Life Science, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Jiani Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Life Science, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Kexin Chang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Life Science, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Luyao Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Life Science, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Ke Yan
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Life Science, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Chunxiang Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Life Science, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Yan Tan
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Life Science, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Xu Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Life Science, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Jianxin Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Life Science, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese medicine, Beijing 100029, China.
| | - Qian Hua
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Life Science, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese medicine, Beijing 100029, China.
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Ma YY, Li X, Yu JT, Wang YJ. Therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases by targeting the gut microbiome: from bench to bedside. Transl Neurodegener 2024; 13:12. [PMID: 38414054 PMCID: PMC10898075 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-024-00404-1] [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: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The aetiologies and origins of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Huntington's disease (HD), are complex and multifaceted. A growing body of evidence suggests that the gut microbiome plays crucial roles in the development and progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Clinicians have come to realize that therapeutics targeting the gut microbiome have the potential to halt the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. This narrative review examines the alterations in the gut microbiome in AD, PD, ALS and HD, highlighting the close relationship between the gut microbiome and the brain in neurodegenerative diseases. Processes that mediate the gut microbiome-brain communication in neurodegenerative diseases, including the immunological, vagus nerve and circulatory pathways, are evaluated. Furthermore, we summarize potential therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases that modify the gut microbiome and its metabolites, including diets, probiotics and prebiotics, microbial metabolites, antibacterials and faecal microbiome transplantation. Finally, current challenges and future directions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Yuan Ma
- Department of Neurology and Centre for Clinical Neuroscience, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
- Institute of Brain and Intelligence, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ageing and Brain Diseases, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Xin Li
- Army 953 Hospital, Shigatse Branch of Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Shigatse, 857000, China
| | - Jin-Tai Yu
- Department of Neurology and National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China.
| | - Yan-Jiang Wang
- Department of Neurology and Centre for Clinical Neuroscience, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China.
- Institute of Brain and Intelligence, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China.
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ageing and Brain Diseases, Chongqing, 400042, China.
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Nohesara S, Abdolmaleky HM, Thiagalingam S, Zhou JR. Gut microbiota defined epigenomes of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases reveal novel targets for therapy. Epigenomics 2024; 16:57-77. [PMID: 38088063 PMCID: PMC10804213 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2023-0342] [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: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The origins of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) involve genetic mutations, epigenetic changes, neurotoxin exposure and gut microbiota dysregulation. The gut microbiota's dynamic composition and its metabolites influence intestinal and blood-brain barrier integrity, contributing to AD and PD development. This review explores protein misfolding, aggregation and epigenetic links in AD and PD pathogenesis. It also highlights the role of a leaky gut and the microbiota-gut-brain axis in promoting these diseases through inflammation-induced epigenetic alterations. In addition, we investigate the potential of diet, probiotics and microbiota transplantation for preventing and treating AD and PD via epigenetic modifications, along with a discussion related to current challenges and future considerations. These approaches offer promise for translating research findings into practical clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shabnam Nohesara
- Department of Medicine (Biomedical Genetics), Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Hamid Mostafavi Abdolmaleky
- Department of Medicine (Biomedical Genetics), Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Department of Surgery, Nutrition/Metabolism laboratory, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boson, MA 02215, USA
| | - Sam Thiagalingam
- Department of Medicine (Biomedical Genetics), Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Jin-Rong Zhou
- Department of Surgery, Nutrition/Metabolism laboratory, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boson, MA 02215, USA
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Hao W, Luo Q, Tomic I, Quan W, Hartmann T, Menger MD, Fassbender K, Liu Y. Modulation of Alzheimer's disease brain pathology in mice by gut bacterial depletion: the role of IL-17a. Gut Microbes 2024; 16:2363014. [PMID: 38904096 PMCID: PMC11195493 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2024.2363014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Gut bacteria regulate brain pathology of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients and animal models; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In this study, 3-month-old APP-transgenic female mice with and without knock-out of Il-17a gene were treated with antibiotics-supplemented or normal drinking water for 2 months. The antibiotic treatment eradicated almost all intestinal bacteria, which led to a reduction in Il-17a-expressing CD4-positive T lymphocytes in the spleen and gut, and to a decrease in bacterial DNA in brain tissue. Depletion of gut bacteria inhibited inflammatory activation in both brain tissue and microglia, lowered cerebral Aβ levels, and promoted transcription of Arc gene in the brain of APP-transgenic mice, all of which effects were abolished by deficiency of Il-17a. As possible mechanisms regulating Aβ pathology, depletion of gut bacteria inhibited β-secretase activity and increased the expression of Abcb1 and Lrp1 in the brain or at the blood-brain barrier, which were also reversed by the absence of Il-17a. Interestingly, a crossbreeding experiment between APP-transgenic mice and Il-17a knockout mice further showed that deficiency of Il-17a had already increased Abcb1 and Lrp1 expression at the blood-brain barrier. Thus, depletion of gut bacteria attenuates inflammatory activation and amyloid pathology in APP-transgenic mice via Il-17a-involved signaling pathways. Our study contributes to a better understanding of the gut-brain axis in AD pathophysiology and highlights the therapeutic potential of Il-17a inhibition or specific depletion of gut bacteria that stimulate the development of Il-17a-expressing T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenlin Hao
- Department of Neurology, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
- German Institute for Dementia Prevention (DIDP), Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Qinghua Luo
- Department of Neurology, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
- German Institute for Dementia Prevention (DIDP), Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
- Department of Neurology, The second affiliated hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Inge Tomic
- Department of Neurology, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
- German Institute for Dementia Prevention (DIDP), Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Wenqiang Quan
- Department of Neurology, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
- German Institute for Dementia Prevention (DIDP), Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tongji Hospital, Tongji University Medical School, Shanghai, China
| | - Tobias Hartmann
- German Institute for Dementia Prevention (DIDP), Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
- Department of Experimental Neurology, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Michael D. Menger
- Department of Experimental Surgery, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Klaus Fassbender
- Department of Neurology, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
- German Institute for Dementia Prevention (DIDP), Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Neurology, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
- German Institute for Dementia Prevention (DIDP), Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
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Zhang M, Mi N, Ying Z, Lin X, Jin Y. Advances in the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease based on oral bacteria. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1291455. [PMID: 38156323 PMCID: PMC10754487 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1291455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
With the global population undergoing demographic shift towards aging, the prevalence of Alzheimer's disease (AD), a prominent neurodegenerative disorder that primarily afflicts individuals aged 65 and above, has increased across various geographical regions. This phenomenon is accompanied by a concomitant decline in immune functionality and oral hygiene capacity among the elderly, precipitating compromised oral functionality and an augmented burden of dental plaque. Accordingly, oral afflictions, including dental caries and periodontal disease, manifest with frequency among the geriatric population worldwide. Recent scientific investigations have unveiled the potential role of oral bacteria in instigating both local and systemic chronic inflammation, thereby delineating a putative nexus between oral health and the genesis and progression of AD. They further proposed the oral microbiome as a potentially modifiable risk factor in AD development, although the precise pathological mechanisms and degree of association have yet to be fully elucidated. This review summarizes current research on the relationship between oral bacteria and AD, describing the epidemiological and pathological mechanisms that may potentially link them. The purpose is to enrich early diagnostic approaches by incorporating emerging biomarkers, offering novel insights for clinicians in the early detection of AD. Additionally, it explores the potential of vaccination strategies and guidance for clinical pharmacotherapy. It proposes the development of maintenance measures specifically targeting oral health in older adults and advocates for guiding elderly patients in adopting healthy lifestyle habits, ultimately aiming to indirectly mitigate the progression of AD while promoting oral health in the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Ying Jin
- Department of Stomatology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Endres K, Schäfer KH. Could microbiota transfer between cohabitants influence Alzheimer disease risk? Nat Rev Neurol 2023; 19:713-714. [PMID: 37864078 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-023-00894-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Endres
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany.
| | - Karl-Herbert Schäfer
- Working Group Enteric Nervous System, University of Applied Sciences, Kaiserslautern, Germany
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Kapphan LM, Nguyen VTT, Heinrich I, Tüscher O, Passauer P, Schwiertz A, Endres K. Comparison of Frailty and Chronological Age as Determinants of the Murine Gut Microbiota in an Alzheimer's Disease Mouse Model. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2856. [PMID: 38138000 PMCID: PMC10745811 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11122856] [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: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The ageing of an organism is associated with certain features of functional decline that can be assessed at the cellular level (e.g., reduced telomere length, loss of proteostasis, etc.), but also at the organismic level. Frailty is an independent syndrome that involves increased multidimensional age-related deficits, heightens vulnerability to stressors, and involves physical deficits in mainly the locomotor/muscular capacity, but also in physical appearance and cognition. For sporadic Alzheimer's disease, age per se is one of the most relevant risk factors, but frailty has also been associated with this disease. Therefore, we aimed to answer the two following questions within a cross-sectional study: (1) do Alzheimer's model mice show increased frailty, and (2) what changes of the microbiota occur concerning chronological age or frailty? Indeed, aged 5xFAD mice showed increased frailty compared to wild type littermates. In addition, 5xFAD mice had significantly lower quantities of Bacteroides spp. when only considering frailty, and lower levels of Bacteroidetes in terms of both frailty and chronological age compared to their wild type littermates. Thus, the quality of ageing-as assessed by frailty measures-should be taken into account to unravel potential changes in the gut microbial community in Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Malina Kapphan
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (L.M.K.); (V.T.T.N.); (I.H.); (O.T.)
| | - Vu Thu Thuy Nguyen
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (L.M.K.); (V.T.T.N.); (I.H.); (O.T.)
| | - Isabel Heinrich
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (L.M.K.); (V.T.T.N.); (I.H.); (O.T.)
| | - Oliver Tüscher
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (L.M.K.); (V.T.T.N.); (I.H.); (O.T.)
| | - Pamela Passauer
- MVZ Institut für Mikroökologie GmbH, 35745 Herborn, Germany; (P.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Andreas Schwiertz
- MVZ Institut für Mikroökologie GmbH, 35745 Herborn, Germany; (P.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Kristina Endres
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (L.M.K.); (V.T.T.N.); (I.H.); (O.T.)
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Hashimoto K. Emerging role of the host microbiome in neuropsychiatric disorders: overview and future directions. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:3625-3637. [PMID: 37845499 PMCID: PMC10730413 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02287-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
The human body harbors a diverse ecosystem of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, collectively known as the microbiota. Current research is increasingly focusing on the potential association between the microbiota and various neuropsychiatric disorders. The microbiota resides in various parts of the body, such as the oral cavity, nasal passages, lungs, gut, skin, bladder, and vagina. The gut microbiota in the gastrointestinal tract has received particular attention due to its high abundance and its potential role in psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. However, the microbiota presents in other body tissues, though less abundant, also plays crucial role in immune system and human homeostasis, thus influencing the development and progression of neuropsychiatric disorders. For example, oral microbiota imbalance and associated periodontitis might increase the risk for neuropsychiatric disorders. Additionally, studies using the postmortem brain samples have detected the widespread presence of oral bacteria in the brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease. This article provides an overview of the emerging role of the host microbiota in neuropsychiatric disorders and discusses future directions, such as underlying biological mechanisms, reliable biomarkers associated with the host microbiota, and microbiota-targeted interventions, for research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenji Hashimoto
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan.
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