Ethanol: striking the cardiovascular system by harming the gut microbiota

Abstract

Ethanol consumption represents a significant public health problem, and excessive ethanol intake is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. The mechanisms underlying the effects of ethanol on the cardiovascular system are complex and not fully comprehended. The gut microbiota and their metabolites are indispensable symbionts essential for health and homeostasis and therefore, have emerged as potential contributors to ethanol-induced cardiovascular system dysfunction. By mechanisms that are not completely understood, the gut microbiota modulates the immune system and activates several signaling pathways that stimulate inflammatory responses, which in turn, contribute to the development and progression of CVD. This review summarizes preclinical and clinical evidence on the effects of ethanol in the gut microbiota and discusses the mechanisms by which ethanol-induced gut dysbiosis leads to the activation of the immune system and cardiovascular dysfunction. The crosstalk between ethanol consumption and the gut microbiota and its implications are detailed. In summary, an imbalance in the symbiotic relationship between the host and the commensal microbiota in a holobiont, as seen with ethanol consumption, may contribute to CVD. Therefore, manipulating the gut microbiota, by using antibiotics, probiotics, prebiotics and fecal microbiota transplantation might prove a valuable opportunity to prevent/mitigate the deleterious effects of ethanol and improve cardiovascular health and risk prevention.

Association of alcohol consumption with all‐cause mortality, new‐onset stroke, and coronary heart disease in patients with abnormal glucose metabolism—Findings from a 10‐year follow‐up of the REACTION study

“…It was also reported that alcohol intake was positively correlated with peripheral atherosclerotic plaque volume, 26 suggesting that heavy consumption may result in macrovascular diseases. Recently, it was reported that alcohol‐induced imbalances in the symbiotic relationship between the host and the gut microbiota could lead to the development and progression of CVD 27 . In the present study, we also found that occasional drinking could more significantly decrease all‐cause mortality compared with never drinking, indicating that drinking less than once a week may have a positive effect on health outcomes.…”

“…Recently, it was reported that alcohol-induced imbalances in the symbiotic relationship between the host and the gut microbiota could lead to the development and progression of CVD. 27 In the present study, we also found that occasional drinking could more significantly decrease all-cause mortality compared with never drinking, indicating that drinking less than once a week may have a positive effect on health outcomes. However, no association was found between light or moderate alcohol consumption and the outcomes.…”