The Gut-Brain Axis in Alzheimer's Disease: How Gut Microb iota Modulate Microglial Function

HUAN WANG¹FEIFAN YANG²Zhejianyi Gao¹Zedong Cheng^1*Xicai Liang^1*

• ¹Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, China
• ²Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan

Abstract: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder that can be caused by multiple factors such as abnormal Aβ deposition, pathological changes of Tau protein, lipid metabolism disorders, and oxidative stress. Recent studies have revealed the potential link between gut microbiota and AD, especially the impact of gut microbiota and its derivatives on microglia. As immune cells in the central nervous system, microglia are involved in neuroinflammation and the regulation of cognitive function. Research indicates that the dysregulation of gut microbiota may affect the phenotype and function of microglia through various mechanisms, including direct metabolite action and indirect immune and neurotransmitter regulation. This article reviews the direct and indirect effects of gut microbiota and its derivatives on microglia, explores their role in the pathogenesis of AD, and discusses therapeutic strategies based on gut microbiota, such as dietary regulation, probiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation, and traditional Chinese medicine. Although existing studies have shown the potential of these interventions, further research is needed to fully understand their application in the treatment of AD.