Gut Bacteria Imbalance May Indicate Severity in Multiple Sclerosis

Emerging research suggests that a particular imbalance of gut bacteria may serve as an indicator of disease severity in multiple sclerosis (MS), a condition affecting millions worldwide.

The study highlights that approximately 2.9 million individuals globally suffer from MS, a chronic neurological disease characterized by the immune system targeting the central nervous system. The severity of MS symptoms can vary and worsen over time, in a process known as exacerbations. Critical risk factors for MS include both nonmodifiable elements like genetics and modifiable ones, such as lifestyle and dietary habits influencing gut health. Specifically, an imbalanced gut microbiome has surfaced as a key area of interest due to its potential role in the disease.

Research led by Ashutosh K. Mangalam, PhD, from the Carver College of Medicine, points to two bacterial types, Blautia and Prevotella, as possible markers for MS severity. In a study involving 45 MS patients, the team observed elevated levels of Blautia and decreased levels of Prevotella compared to healthy individuals. Dr. Mangalam notes that this disparity could signify a link between the gut microbiota and MS, warranting further exploration into how these bacteria might impact the disease’s progression.

In experimental models using mice, the researchers discovered that those given Blautia experienced increased gut inflammation and more severe MS-like symptoms. Further observations indicated that Blautia-dominant mice also exhibited lower levels of a bacterium called Bifidobacterium and higher levels of Akkermansia before symptom manifestation. This suggests an imbalance between Bifidobacterium and Akkermansia might predict MS severity.

The intricate interplay between these bacteria reveals that both Blautia and Akkermansia contribute to gut inflammation differently, potentially affecting brain health. Blautia’s consumption of mucin exposes parts of it for Akkermansia, potentially exacerbating inflammation. Conversely, Bifidobacterium seems to thrive in less inflammatory environments, its reduction indicating adverse gut conditions associated with MS.

In light of these findings, the potential role of probiotics in managing MS symptoms comes into question. While there’s a temptation to consider probiotic-rich foods, Mangalam advises caution, emphasizing that beneficial bacteria need a conducive environment to offer advantages. Instead, he recommends focusing on a healthy, plant-based diet to naturally support the gut microbiome.

Despite promising indicators from animal studies, Dr. Barbara Giesser, an MS expert, underscores the necessity for extensive human trials to validate these findings. She highlights the responsiveness of the gut microbiome to dietary and lifestyle changes, suggesting such factors might eventually inform management strategies for those with MS.

The indication that gut bacteria ratios could be linked to MS severity adds a new dimension to understanding this disease. It calls for more comprehensive human studies to confirm these initial findings and potentially guide future dietary recommendations.

Reference: PMCID: PMC10001679  PMID: 36901634