The Intriguing Link Between Gut Microbiome and Alzheimer’s Disease
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Chapter 1: The Gut-Brain Connection
The relationship between our gut and brain is more significant than we often realize. This connection, known as the gut-brain axis, may play a role in various health issues, including obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Recent studies have highlighted a concerning association between certain gastrointestinal conditions—such as GERD, peptic ulcers, gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome, and diverticulosis—and an increased risk of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). It’s become apparent that the gut's microbial inhabitants are just as important as the gut itself, with both gut bacteria and probiotics being investigated for their potential therapeutic benefits in treating AD.
However, it's essential to consider both sides of this microbial coin. While gut microbes can provide support, they also have the potential to cause harm. With their influence over numerous bodily functions—like appetite control and cancer risk—they can release harmful substances that travel along the gut-brain pathway, impacting brain health.
In the first video, "PODCAST: Understanding the connection between the gut microbiome and Alzheimer's," experts discuss how gut bacteria may influence Alzheimer’s and what this means for treatment strategies.
Section 1.1: The Role of Lipopolysaccharides (LPS)
A recent study delves into the effects of specific Gram-negative bacteria, such as Pseudomonas and Bacteroides, which produce lipopolysaccharides (LPS). These long molecules, integral to the bacteria's outer membrane, are also known as endotoxins, notorious for their ability to activate the immune system and induce neurotoxicity.
The next player in this story is NF-kB, or nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells. This crucial component of the immune response acts as a trigger for inflammation. While it serves a protective function during infections, excessive activation can lead to complications. LPS can stimulate NF-kB, perpetuating this inflammatory cycle.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Impact of MicroRNAs
Another important factor is miRNA-30b, a type of micro RNA that can hinder messenger RNA's ability to translate into proteins, thus influencing gene expression. This specific micro RNA is involved in tissue development and is linked to conditions ranging from cancer to Alzheimer’s.
Another character to consider is neurofilament light chain (NfL), a structural protein within nerve cells. Ideally, we want to find NfL in the brain, not in the bloodstream, where it may signal nerve damage. miRNA-30b has been shown to suppress NfL levels, leading to a potential chain of negative effects.
The emerging narrative is as follows: Harmful gut bacteria release LPS → NF-kB is activated → increased miRNA-30b production → decreased NfL in the brain → compromised structural integrity of brain cells.
While these findings are primarily based on cell cultures and animal studies, higher levels of miRNA-30b have also been observed in the brain tissues of Alzheimer’s patients.
To be continued…?
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Chapter 2: Further Investigations
The second video, "The Gut Microbiome and Alzheimer's Disease," expands on the implications of gut health on Alzheimer's, offering insights into potential therapeutic approaches.
