Abstract

Objective: To summarize current data regarding the bidirectional communication of the gut microbiota and the brain, specifically in relation to cognitive improvement, microbiota diversity, and dietary interventions. Additionally, the mechanisms underlying these relationships will be explored. Evidence Acquisition: Using the key terms “gut-brain axis" and "Alzheimer’s disease” PubMed and Web of Science were searched for papers published between 2014 and 2023. This yielded 297 results, of which 23 were relevant to this topic. Articles that failed to address cognitive impairment or only studied animal subjects were excluded. After scanning each paper, nine review articles and 14 new studies were selected for this literature review. Evidence Synthesis: Numerous studies have demonstrated the remarkable communication between the microbiota residing in the intestinal tract and central nervous system function. The metabolites of gut microbiota transmit signals via the vagus nerve to both the brain and spinal cord, and feedback signals are sent back after higher processing occurs. This bidirectional connection has been shown to influence the functionality and stability of both systems. Dysregulation in the gut microbiome can result in the transmission of inflammatory signals along the pathway, which can increase the permeability of the blood-brain barrier, promote neuroinflammation and ultimately lead to cognitive impairment.

Publication Date

1-1-2024

Document Type

Master's Project

Student Type

Graduate

Degree Name

Physician Assistant (MS)

Department, Program, or Center

Physician Assistant

College

College of Health Sciences and Technology

Advisor

Joseph Nicholas

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

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