There is a connection between multiple sclerosis and the intestinal flora, which is apparently mediated by a specific receptor. (Image: troyanphoto/stock.adobe.com)
Gut flora and chronic inflammation linked in MS
Multiple Sklerose (MS) is characterized by chronic inflammation that damages the central nervous system. A recent study shows possible ways to interrupt the inflammation. The Darmflora seems to be of essential importance.
A research team from University of Virginia has investigated to what extent a special receptor (Aryl-Hydrocarbon-Rezeptor; AhR) plays a role in MS. They discovered a connection between the hyperactive autoimmune reaction and the Darmmikrobiom (intestinal flora). The corresponding study results were published in the specialist magazine PLOS Biology published.
New insights into MS
For multiple sclerosis, treatments focus on helping people manage their symptoms, control flare-ups, and slow the progression of the disease. So far there is no prospect of a cure.
On the one hand, the latest research results have shed new light on the causes of the disease and, for example, identified the Epstein-Barr virus as the trigger for multiple sclerosis, and on the other hand, the connection between the intestinal flora and MS has also come more into focus.
Role of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor
The current research work now shows on mice that apparently the Aryl-Hydrocarbon-Rezeptor has a decisive influence on the connection between the intestinal flora and the chronic inflammation in MS.
Did the researchers block the activity of the receptor in immune cells, the so-called T cellsthis had a profound impact on the production of bile acids and other metabolites in the mouse microbiome.
Without this receptor, the inflammation went down and the mice recovered, the team reports. Apparently the receptor can do that Reprogram gut microbiomeso it promotes harmful, chronic inflammation, while blocking it promotes a healthier gut flora.
Prime target for new treatment approaches
According to the researchers, the receptor is also a first-class target for new treatment approaches against multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune diseases. “We are approaching the search for therapeutics for multiple sclerosis from a new direction”stressed Andrea R. Merchak vom Department of Neuroscience an der University of Virginia.
Before concrete approaches against MS can be derived from this, however, a lot of research is still required and a better understanding of the interactions between the immune system and the Darmflora. The current study provides important foundations for future efforts to use the microbiome specifically against MS.
“Due to the complexity of the intestinal flora, probiotics are difficult to use clinically. This receptor is easily targeted with drugs, so we may have found a more reliable way to promote a healthy gut microbiome.”summed up Merchak. (fp)