The Relationship Between Gut Microbiota and Neurodegenerative Diseases: A Meta-Analysis

Author(s):Dr. Arjun Mehta

Received: 2019-11-01 Accepted: 2019-11-17 Published: 2019-12-01

Abstract

Background: Emerging evidence suggests that gut microbiota may influence the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases through the gut-brain axis. This study aims to analyze the relationship between gut microbiota composition and neurodegenerative conditions, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted, including 30 studies published between 2015 and 2023, with a total of 4,500 participants. Metrics such as gut microbiota diversity, abundance of specific bacterial genera, and associations with disease progression were evaluated.
Results: Neurodegenerative diseases were associated with reduced gut microbiota diversity (mean difference: -1.25, 95% CI: -1.60 to -0.90, p < 0.01) and an increased prevalence of pathogenic bacteria like Escherichia coli. Beneficial bacteria such as Bacteroides and Lactobacillus were significantly reduced in patients with AD and PD. A positive correlation was observed between gut dysbiosis and biomarkers of neuroinflammation.
Conclusion: This meta-analysis supports the hypothesis that gut microbiota alterations contribute to neurodegenerative disease pathogenesis. Modulating gut microbiota through probiotics, prebiotics, or dietary interventions holds promise as a therapeutic strategy.

Keywords: Gut Microbiota, Neurodegenerative Diseases, Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, Gut-Brain Axis

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