Intestinal dysbiosis and neurodegeneration: the gut-brain relationship in Alzheimer's disease
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.34024/rnc.2025.v33.19757Keywords:
brain-gut axis, gastrointestinal microbiome, pathogenesis, alzheimer disease, neurodegenerative diseaseAbstract
Introduction. Given the growing understanding of microbiota as an influential component in brain health, this study proposes an integrated perspective of existing knowledge, providing an analysis of the available literature. Alzheimer’s disease (AD), characterized by neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation, presents significant challenges in diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, with the increasing proportion of elderly individuals globally, understanding the gut-brain axis interactions has become crucial to investigating underlying mechanisms and presenting new therapeutic perspectives. Objective. To analyze the relationship between gut microbiota and the neurodegenerative processes of Alzheimer's disease, with an emphasis on dysbiosis and its impact on neural regulation. Method. An integrative literature review was conducted with a critical analysis of studies on the relationship between the gut microbiota and AD. A total of 183 articles were identified, of which 28 were selected after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results. The studies highlight the importance of the gut in metabolic, immunological, and neural regulation, emphasizing the gut-brain axis as a bidirectional communication pathway. The intestinal microbiota emerges as a central element in understanding neurodegenerative diseases, influencing inflammatory and homeostatic processes in the brain. Conclusion. The gut-brain axis is a relevant pathway for understanding the underlying mechanisms of AD, positioning the intestinal microbiota as a potential target for therapeutic interventions. Understanding these interactions is essential for preventive strategies and developing more effective treatments against the growing impact of AD on global public health.
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