Angelo M Jamerlan 1, Seong Soo A. An 1 *, John P. Hulme 1 *
1Department of Bionanotechnology, Bionano Research Institute, Gachon University, Seongnam-si, Republic of Korea.
*Corresponding authors: correspondence to Seong Soo A. An or John P. Hulme
Abstract
The gut–brain axis (GBA) denotes the dynamic and bidirectional communication system that connects the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system (CNS). This review explored this axis, focusing on the role of microbial diversity and fitness in maintaining gastrointestinal health and preventing neurodegeneration, particularly in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Gut dysbiosis, characterized by the imbalance in populations of beneficial and harmful bacteria, has been associated with increased systemic inflammation, neuroinflammation, and the progression of AD through pathogenic mechanisms involving amyloid deposition, tauopathy, and increased blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability. Emerging evidence highlighted the therapeutic potential of probiotics, dietary interventions, and intermittent fasting in restoring microbial balance, reducing inflammation, and minimizing neurodegenerative risks. Probiotics and synbiotics are promising in helping improve cognitive function and metabolic health, while dietary patterns like the Mediterranean diet were linked to decreased neuroinflammation and enhanced gut–brain communication. Despite significant advancement, further research is needed to elucidate the specific microbial strains, metabolites, and mechanisms influencing brain health. Future studies employing longitudinal designs and advanced omics technologies are essential to developing targeted microbiome-based therapies for managing AD-related disorders.
본 논문은 장내 미생물 다양성과 기능적 건강성이 알츠하이머병(AD)의 발병에 어떤 영향을 미치는지를 다룬 리뷰입니다. 장내 불균형이 뇌 염증, 혈뇌장벽의 투과성 증가, 아밀로이드 및 타우 단백질의 축적 등 AD의 주요 병리 과정에 어떻게 기여하는지를 정리하였습니다. 또한, 프로바이오틱스, 지중해식 식단, 간헐적 단식과 같은 식이 개입이 AD 예방 및 치료 전략이 될 수 있음을 제안합니다.