Archive · 18 Aug 2025
Gut Bacteria Imbalance Linked to Multiple Sclerosis Severity
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease where the body attacks the brain and spinal cord.
Scientists have found a connection between gut bacteria and how severe MS is.
A study showed that the balance between two bacteria, Bifidobacterium and Akkermansia, matters.
People with MS often have less Bifidobacterium and more Akkermansia.
This imbalance may make the disease worse.
The research suggests that what is usually good bacteria can turn bad in MS. Scientists hope these findings can lead to better ways to diagnose and treat MS in the future.
MS is an autoimmune disease affecting the brain and spinal cord, impacting millions globally.
Research suggests the gut microbiome, including bacteria like Blautia and Prevotella, influences MS.
Studies show the ratio of Bifidobacterium to Akkermansia in the gut correlates with MS severity.
An imbalance, with low Bifidobacterium and high Akkermansia, is linked to worse disease outcomes.
Normally beneficial bacteria can become harmful, highlighting a potential role in MS progression.
- Who
- Researchers studying the gut microbiome in MS patients.
- What
- Research linking gut bacteria imbalance to Multiple Sclerosis severity.
- When
- Study results published in 2025.
- Where
- Research conducted in the US, Latin America, and Europe.
- Why
- To understand and potentially improve diagnosis and treatment of MS.
- Affected Population (US)
- Nearly 1 million
- Affected Population (Worldwide)
- Over 2.8 million
- Key Bacteria - Higher in MS patients
- Blautia, Akkermansia
- Key Bacteria - Lower in MS patients
- Prevotella, Bifidobacterium
- Research Approach
- Bedside-to-bench-to-bedside