MEKK3 bridges gut-brain communication and cerebral cavernous malformation pathogenesis

Mar 28, 2026Cell death discovery

MEKK3 links gut-brain communication to development of brain blood vessel malformations

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Abstract

Cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM) is characterized by endothelial dysfunction and abnormal vascular structure.

  • The gut microbiota is linked to cerebrovascular health and may impact the development of CCM.
  • Dysbiosis can initiate systemic inflammation through pathways like lipopolysaccharide (LPS) -TLR4, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO).
  • These inflammatory responses may disrupt cerebrovascular function and the integrity of the blood-brain barrier.
  • The gut-brain axis may influence the behavior of endothelial cells, affecting their proliferation, migration, and apoptosis.
  • Existing studies indicate that the gut-brain axis could play a significant role in the pathological progression of CCM.

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