Progress on the correlation between amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and gut microbiota / 中华神经科杂志

ABSTRACT

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease that mainly affects upper and lower motor neurons. The etiology of ALS has not been fully understood, and it is believed that the interaction of genes, aging and the environment can contribute to its pathogenesis. The gut microbiota of human body plays an important role in substance metabolism, food digestion and nutrient absorption. The diversity and stability of gut microbiota play an important role in maintaining the health of the elderly population. Diverse and healthy gut microbiota can prevent the occurrence of neurodegenerative diseases. The change of gut microbiota may lead to the onset and progression of ALS, and its mechanism may include the destruction of intestinal barrier, the production of toxins, the induction of inflammatory response, and metabolic disorders. Therapies based on gut microbiota may provide new ideas for the treatment of ALS.