Sustainable new prebiotics for brain health: gut bacteria and brain connections in brain diseases with nerve damage

Neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory diseases are increasingly associated with disruptions in the microbiota-gut-brain axis.

• Common alterations in these diseases include reduced beneficial microbial taxa and impaired production of short-chain fatty acids.
• Findings support the potential development of dietary interventions targeting the microbiota.
• Preclinical studies suggest that bioactive compounds may help reduce microglial activation and improve mitochondrial function.
• Evidence from early clinical studies indicates potential benefits on mood, cognitive outcomes, metabolic regulation, and inflammatory biomarkers.
• Microbiota-derived metabolites, such as urolithins, may play a key role in these effects.
• Clinical validation remains fragmented, highlighting the need for standardized formulations and mechanistic trials.

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