Gut Bacteria Linked to Multiple Sclerosis: Study Identifies Potential Triggers

A new study has identified specific gut bacteria potentially linked to the development of multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is an inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. Researchers examined stool samples and microorganisms directly from the small intestine of identical twins, where only one twin had MS. The study, involving twins from the MS TWIN STUDY at the Institute for Clinical Neuroimmunology of the LMU Klinikum, aimed to minimize confounding factors. Researchers identified 51 taxa (microorganisms of a specific group) that differed between healthy and affected twins. Four pairs of twins underwent endoscopic sampling of the small intestine, where interactions between microorganisms and immune cells are suspected. Using a mouse model, researchers identified Lachnoclostridium and Eisenbergiella tayi as potential disease-causing bacteria. Mice receiving gut samples from MS patients showed MS-like symptoms. This suggests that specific microorganisms in the small intestine may trigger the disease. The study highlights the role of lifestyle in MS development and offers new avenues for research and potential therapies.