Dietary Modulation of Intestinal Microbiota: Future Opportunities in Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis and Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects the functioning of the central nervous system (CNS). Recent studies on MS and its animal model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), have shown that the composition and abundance of microbes in the intestinal microbiota are an environmental risk factor for the development of MS and EAE. Changes in certain microbial populations in the gastrointestinal tract can cause MS in humans, but MS inflammation can be reduced or even prevented by introducing other commensal microbes that produce beneficial metabolites. Other risk factors for MS include the presence of an altered gut physiology and the interaction between the intestinal microbiota and the immune system. Metabolites including short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), such as butyrate, are the primary signaling molecules produced by the intestinal microbiota that interact with the host immune system, suggesting an association between MS pathophysiology and gut microbiota. In addition, several host microRNAs present in the gut have been found to interact with the intestinal microbial community, these interactions may indirectly affect the neurological system. Increasing evidence has shown that regulation of the intestinal microbiota is an important approach for reducing MS inflammation. Thus, here we review the use of diet to alter the gut microbiota and its application in the treatment and prevention of MS.

Effects of Selenium- and Zinc-Enriched Lactobacillus plantarum SeZi on Antioxidant Capacities and Gut Microbiome in an ICR Mouse Model

“…The relative abundance of Adlercreutzia was significantly higher in the SZ + Lp group compared to the control and SZ groups. According to the previous studies, a decreased level of Adlercreutzia was observed in multiple sclerosis patients and Alzheimer’s disease patients [ 54 , 55 ]. Amongst Adlercreutzia species, A. equolifaciens is an equol-producing bacteria, promoting intestinal health [ 56 ].…”

Potential of modified Mediterranean diet to improve quality of life and fatigue severity in multiple sclerosis patients: a single-center randomized controlled trial

“…[39,40] Prebiotics may reduce biogenic amines that cause intestinal inflammation [41] ; this effect can lower the risk of MS and improve the clinical manifestations. [42] This study had some limitations. We could not perform double or triple blinding due to the nature of study.…”

Heterologous Immunity: Role in Natural and Vaccine-Induced Resistance to Infections

“…Specifically, it has been shown that pathological precipitation of many of the autoimmune diseases e.g., multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus, are controlled to a large extent by environment and microbiota (95, 96). Moreover, even in individuals with genetic susceptibility and the peripheral presence of potentially autoreactive T cells, modifications of gut microbiota may allow modulating the disease pathology (97). Therefore, it can be inferred that self-reactive (autoimmune) consequences of vaccines may be prevented/circumvented through modulation of gut microbiota.…”