A growing number of studies are exploring the contributions of the gut microbiota in the development of multiple sclerosis (MS) and suggest this domain as a potential new target for therapies and prevention of this autoimmune disease.
A new study published in Journal of Interferon & Cytokine Research and led by researchers from the Baltimore School of Medicine (United States) once again highlights the interest of the intestinal microbiota as a potential target for the treatment and prevention of multiple sclerosis.
In this study, the researchers deciphered the role of bacteria and viruses in the development and progression of MS. They show how the nature of the intestinal microbial flora can influence the development of autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis.
The researchers suggest that MS patients suffer from a gut microbial imbalance (dysbiosis) and also suggest that the gut microbiota is a potential environmental factor triggering the progression of the disease in genetically predisposed people.
Recently, another study suggested that a genetic mutation could be the cause of multiple sclerosis.
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