Microbiome and Neurological Disorders

The human body serves as a reservoir of a wide range of microbial communities which influence the overall health status. Neurological disorders affect the nervous system that range from migraines to Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Advance research has revealed a potential relationship between the human microbiome and neurological disorders. Alterations in microbiome composition and function can affect brain health that may lead to neurological impairments. The microbiome’s production of neuroactive compounds, including neurotransmitters and metabolites, may influence brain activity and behavior. Additionally, dysbiosis-triggered immune imbalance can lead to chronic inflammation, associated with neuroinflammation and neurodegenerative diseases. This chapter explores the potential impact of the human microbiome in certain neurological disorders, including epilepsy, gliomas, stroke, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, brain injury, Alzheimer’s disease, autism spectrum disorder, neuromyelitis optica, multiple sclerosis (MS), and schizophrenia. Mechanisms such as inflammasome-associated, NF-κB-mediated, Type 1 interferon-related signaling cascades, and enteric nervous system communication are briefly explained. Furthermore, the potential of microbiome-based interventions that is probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics in managing or preventing these disorders is briefly explored. By advancing our knowledge about microbiome’s influence on neurological health, this chapter aims to unveil the therapeutic approaches for these aforementioned disorders.