Author:
Boddy Sarah L.,Giovannelli Ilaria,Sassani Matilde,Cooper-Knock Johnathan,Snyder Michael P.,Segal Eran,Elinav Eran,Barker Lynne A.,Shaw Pamela J.,McDermott Christopher J.
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Much progress has been made in mapping genetic abnormalities linked to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), but the majority of cases still present with no known underlying cause. Furthermore, even in families with a shared genetic abnormality there is significant phenotypic variability, suggesting that non-genetic elements may modify pathogenesis. Identification of such disease-modifiers is important as they might represent new therapeutic targets. A growing body of research has begun to shed light on the role played by the gut microbiome in health and disease with a number of studies linking abnormalities to ALS.
Main body
The microbiome refers to the genes belonging to the myriad different microorganisms that live within and upon us, collectively known as the microbiota. Most of these microbes are found in the intestines, where they play important roles in digestion and the generation of key metabolites including neurotransmitters. The gut microbiota is an important aspect of the environment in which our bodies operate and inter-individual differences may be key to explaining the different disease outcomes seen in ALS. Work has begun to investigate animal models of the disease, and the gut microbiomes of people living with ALS, revealing changes in the microbial communities of these groups. The current body of knowledge will be summarised in this review. Advances in microbiome sequencing methods will be highlighted, as their improved resolution now enables researchers to further explore differences at a functional level. Proposed mechanisms connecting the gut microbiome to neurodegeneration will also be considered, including direct effects via metabolites released into the host circulation and indirect effects on bioavailability of nutrients and even medications.
Conclusion
Profiling of the gut microbiome has the potential to add an environmental component to rapidly advancing studies of ALS genetics and move research a step further towards personalised medicine for this disease. Moreover, should compelling evidence of upstream neurotoxicity or neuroprotection initiated by gut microbiota emerge, modification of the microbiome will represent a potential new avenue for disease modifying therapies. For an intractable condition with few current therapeutic options, further research into the ALS microbiome is of crucial importance.
Funder
NIHR Sheffield Biomedical Research Centre
NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre
Wellcome Trust
NIH Human Microbiome Project
Crown Human Genome Center
European Research Council
Israel Science Foundation
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
Howard Hughes Medical Institute
Medical Research Council
UK Research and Innovation
University of Sheffield
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Cited by
69 articles.
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