The Emerging Role of the Gut Microbiome in Adult Patients With Multiple Sclerosis.
BACKGROUND
Approximately 2.3 million people worldwide are currently living with multiple sclerosis (MS). The pathophysiologic mechanism of MS is not well known. It has been suggested that alterations in the normal gut flora may contribute to MS etiology and symptoms.


OBJECTIVE
The aims of this review are to describe the data suggesting a role for the gut microbiome in MS research and address its implications for practice.


METHODS
A literature search of the following databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane library database, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Psychology and Behavioral Sciences) was conducted to find published studies relevant to gut microbiome in patients with MS.


METHODS
Five articles met the inclusion criteria of research studies of human gut microbiome in adults in English language and those receiving disease-modifying medications. Exclusion criteria were case reports and reviews.


RESULTS
Human studies found that the gut microbiome was different among patients with MS, patients with MS who were treated with glatiramer acetate, and healthy controls.


CONCLUSIONS
There is beginning evidence to suggest that the gut microbiota is related to autoimmunity and the pathology of MS. However, more research is necessary to clarify these mechanisms.


CONCLUSIONS
A better understanding of the role of the gut microbiota in MS may lead to the development of targeted individualized interventions affecting the gut microbiota. These interventions may emphasize symptom self-management strategies such as diet.
Questions or comments about this article may be directed to Pamela K. Newland, PhD RN CMSRN, at Pamela.newland@bjc.org. She is an NRSA Postdoctoral Fellow, Nursing Faculty, Goldfarb School of Nursing, Barnes Jewish College, St. Louis, MO. Margaret Heitkemper, PhD, is Chair, Department of Biobehavioral Nursing and Health Systems, University of Washington School of Nursing, Seattle, WA. Yanjiao Zhou, PhD, Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT.
Pamela K
PK
Newland
Margaret
M
Heitkemper
Yanjiao
Y
Zhou
D000069196:Gastrointestinal Microbiome / Q000276:immunology*; D000068717:Glatiramer Acetate / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000382:microbiology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D009462:Neurology
D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents; D000068717:Glatiramer Acetate