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Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease that affects nearly 2.9 million people worldwide. In MS, the body’s immune system attacks the central nervous system, leading to a wide range of symptoms. Scientists are constantly looking for ways to better understand MS and predict its progression.
A recent study suggests that the balance of certain bacteria in the gut may play a role in determining the severity of MS. Researchers found that people with MS tend to have more of a bacterium called Blautia and less of another type called Prevotella. Since Blautia has been linked to inflammation, while Prevotella is associated with gut health, scientists think this imbalance could be a factor in MS severity.
The goal of the experiment
To test this idea, researchers conducted an experiment on mice. First, they introduced different bacteria into the mice’s digestive systems. What they found was that those with more Blautia developed worse inflammation and MS-like symptoms. They also found that mice with high levels of Blautia had fewer beneficial bacteria, like Bifidobacterium. They also had more of a potentially harmful one called Akkermansia. This pattern was also seen in people with multiple sclerosis. This leads researchers to believe that the ratio of these bacteria could help predict how severe MS might become.
What does this mean for treatment?
So, can probiotics or dietary changes help manage MS? The study’s lead author, Dr. Ashutosh K. Mangalam, urges caution. While probiotics like Bifidobacterium may be beneficial, it is still unclear if they can directly reduce MS symptoms. Instead, Dr. Mangalam recommends a plant-based diet rich in fiber, as diet plays a major role in gut health.
Experts agree that more research is needed, especially in human studies, to confirm these findings. However, this study adds to growing evidence that the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in multiple sclerosis. One day this could help doctors predict and manage the disease more effectively.
