According to one associate research professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and the lead researcher of this study, most people are surprised that their gut bacteria could affect their mood, their behaviors, and brain functions, but the evidence is mounting, and researchers are building an understanding of how gut bacteria, and the health of the brain are connected.
These studies have shown that changes in the gut bacteria can affect the immune system, leading to chronic inflammation throughout the body, including the brain. This inflammation is thought to play a role in the development of various neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease the research has told us.
Additionally, it has been suggested that some species of bacteria inhabiting the gut microbiome produce chemicals that can cross the blood-brain barrier and affect brain function. These chemicals, or metabolites, can work as neurotransmitters. A trusted source also said they interact with the nervous system and influence various process and influence various processes including cognition, mood and behavior.
Furthermore, the gut microbiome is involved in the production of short-chain fatty acids which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects on the brain.
The lead doctor said “SCFAs can also affect the levels of certain hormones and neurotransmitters in the brain, which may play a role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases”.
Identifying bacteria linked to Alzheimer’s.
In this study, the doctor and her team examined a large set of genetic data from the MI Biogen, which researchers said is the largest, multi-ethnic genome-wide meta-analysis of the gut microbiome to date.
At the conclusion of their research, scientists identified 10 specific types of gut bacteria associated with a likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Six bacteria categories were identified as protective:
- AdlercreutziaTrusted Source
- Eubacterium nodatum group
- EisenbergiellaTrusted Source
- Eubacterium fissicatena group
- GordonibacterTrusted Source
- Prevotella9Trusted Source
Four bacteria types were identified as risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease:
- CollinsellaTrusted Source
- BacteroidesTrusted Source
- LachnospiraTrusted Source
- VeillonellaTrusted Source
The explanation is, when the balance of gut bacteria is disrupted, it can lead to inflammation and immune dysfunction in the gut and throughout the body. This, in turn, can contribute to chronic inflammation in the brain, which is a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease.
For example, the Collin Sella genus, a risk genus among the 10 Alzheimer’s disease-associated bacteria, has been found to produce more pro-inflammatory molecules.
Some studies suggest that specific types of gut bacteria may produce chemicals or proteins that can directly impact the brain and contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
Overall, gut bacteria cause their effects by stimulating the central nervous system, immune system, and metabolite system, or even interacting with Alzheimer’s disease risk genes. Doctors say much more needs to be learned about the specific mechanisms by which gut bacteria may contribute to this disease.
The identification of a potential link between gut bacteria and Alzheimer’s disease has opened new avenues for research into the prevention and treatment of this devastating disease.
Researchers seek to understand the mechanisms by which gut bacteria contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease, it may be possible to develop new therapies that target these mechanisms.
Educating patients about the importance of maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, doctors may be able to help prevent or delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative conditions.
Please contact Stephen Brock 513-870-9228 for a tour of our homes. We are committed to caring for those with memory care issues in our homes as residents.
**Source The University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Always discuss all treatments and studies with your doctor.