A recent study published in the journal American Society for Microbiology suggested that the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in the onset and progression of certain neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs). NDDs, which currently have no known cures and whose causes are elusive, cause irreversible damage to the brain and nervous system.

The research team discovered a new link in humans between a metabolite produced by gut microbes and three NDDs. Their findings indicate that the metabolite DHPS (2,3-dihydroxypropane-1-sulfonate) could be vital to understanding how sulfur metabolism pathways connect the microbiome to these disorders.

Researchers studied the gut microbiome profiles in individuals with three neurodegenerative diseases: ALS, AD, and PD. 

 They found 19 metabolic biomarkers common across all three groups, with 20 specific to ALS, 16 to AD, and 9 to PD. These biomarkers included metabolites associated with disruptions in sulfur metabolism pathways. Bilophila and Desulfovibrio bacteria were found to be involved in the synthesis and degradation of DHPS, which is linked to mitochondrial dysfunction. 

 The study suggested that gut microbiome composition and metabolites influence disease progression, potentially paving the way for new therapeutic approaches.

(Source:https://www.daijiworld.com/news/newsDisplay?newsID=1200256)