Deciphering the intricate linkage between the gut microbiota and Alzheimer's disease: Elucidating mechanistic pathways promising therapeutic strategies

Abstract

BackgroundThe gut microbiome is composed of various microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and protozoa, and constitutes an important part of the human gut. Its composition is closely related to human health and disease. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease whose underlying mechanism has not been fully elucidated. Recent research has shown that there are significant differences in the gut microbiota between AD patients and healthy individuals. Changes in the composition of gut microbiota may lead to the development of harmful factors associated with AD. In addition, the gut microbiota may play a role in the development and progression of AD through the gut–brain axis. However, the exact nature of this relationship has not been fully understood.AimsThis review will elucidate the types and functions of gut microbiota and their relationship with AD and explore in depth the potential mechanisms of gut microbiota in the occurrence of AD and the prospects for treatment strategies.MethodsReviewed literature from PubMed and Web of Science using key terminologies related to AD and the gut microbiome.ResultsResearch indicates that the gut microbiota can directly or indirectly influence the occurrence and progression of AD through metabolites, endotoxins, and the vagus nerve.DiscussionThis review discusses the future challenges and research directions regarding the gut microbiota in AD.ConclusionWhile many unresolved issues remain regarding the gut microbiota and AD, the feasibility and immense potential of treating AD by modulating the gut microbiota are evident.

The Importance of Maintaining and Improving a Healthy Gut Microbiota in Athletes as a Preventive Strategy to Improve Heat Tolerance and Acclimatization

“…Impairment of the gut barrier integrity is often involved in various GI and extra-GI diseases, resulting in reduced physical performance. On the other hand, the gut microbiota (GM) colonize the GI tract and develop multiple systemic functions for the host at digestive [ 11 , 12 ], metabolic [ 11 , 12 ], immunological [ 11 , 12 , 13 ], homeostatic [ 11 , 12 , 14 , 15 , 16 ], and structural [ 11 , 12 ] levels. In fact, the GM is directly involved in maintaining the epithelial barrier integrity through bacterial activity, producing and synthesizing mucus and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) [ 11 , 12 , 17 ].…”

“…On the other hand, the gut microbiota (GM) colonize the GI tract and develop multiple systemic functions for the host at digestive [ 11 , 12 ], metabolic [ 11 , 12 ], immunological [ 11 , 12 , 13 ], homeostatic [ 11 , 12 , 14 , 15 , 16 ], and structural [ 11 , 12 ] levels. In fact, the GM is directly involved in maintaining the epithelial barrier integrity through bacterial activity, producing and synthesizing mucus and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) [ 11 , 12 , 17 ]. Thus, the GM interacts directly with the immune and neural systems through metabolites and nerves (gut–brain axis), modulating the inflammatory response, and preventing harm to the intestinal barrier [ 13 ].…”

“…Thus, the GM interacts directly with the immune and neural systems through metabolites and nerves (gut–brain axis), modulating the inflammatory response, and preventing harm to the intestinal barrier [ 13 ]. Furthermore, the GM contributes to maintaining the appropriate intestinal pH, temperature, and oxygen levels for different structures of the intestine [ 11 , 12 , 14 , 15 , 16 ]. Maintaining a healthy gut microbiota can be achieved by maintaining a higher diversity, stability, and balance of the bacterial ecosystem [ 18 ].…”

GSK3: A potential target and pending issues for treatment of Alzheimer's disease

“…Supported by characteristic pathological markers including the aggregation of Aβ and the formation of neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), these factors are believed to be the primary contributors to AD. 13 Furthermore, observations of inflammation, 20 mitochondrial malfunction, oxidative stress, 21 autophagy impairment, 22 gut microbiota deregulation 23 and occurrences of ferroptosis 24 have all been documented in relation to the onset and progression of AD. Above all, AD is a highly intricate neurodegenerative disorder that requires ongoing exploration of therapeutic targets and drug development efforts.…”