The Gut Microbiome-Induced Changes in Brain Immune System and Their Role in Epilepsy

Patients of all ages can experience unpredictable, spontaneous, and uncontrollable seizures as a result of the severe neurological condition called epilepsy. Epilepsy, a chronic neurological disorder characterized by unpredictable seizures, affects millions globally. While traditionally the brain is the focus of treatment, emerging research suggests a potential link between the gut microbiome and epilepsy. When left untreated, these seizures have a significant effect on epileptic patient’s quality of life. More than 50 million people worldwide have epilepsy; nearly 80% of them live in low- and middle-income countries (WHO report, 2017), with developing nations reporting twice as many cases each year. Usually, when we consider neurological problems, we just consider the brain and not the gut. An increasing body of studies shows that the gut-brain axis has links and is crucial. The gut microbiome is a complex microbial community found in the human gastrointestinal (GI) tract that includes both commensal and pathogenic microorganisms. The scientific community is very interested in these gut microorganisms and their potential to enhance human health. Age-related and many intestinal symbiosis of the gut microbiome, which is frequently connected to a compromised immune system, is linked to problems. In many circumstances, especially in older people, a drop in beneficial microorganisms and a reduction in the variety of microbes in the gut can lead to disease. Probiotics, which are ingestible good bacteria, may alter the natural microbiota in the gut in a favourable way. At the neurological, hormonal, and immunological levels, the gastrointestinal system and the brain communicate in both directions. The brain-gut axis is a concept that is essential for preserving homeostasis. The growth and maturation of the immune and endocrine systems after birth are meticulously influenced by bacterial colonization of the intestine. Hence, the current chapter may review the role of gut microbium, brain immunity, and gut microbium-induced changes in epileptic seizures. This chapter delves into the potential link between the gut microbiome, brain immunity, and changes in epileptic seizures. By exploring this connection, we may uncover novel therapeutic strategies for managing epilepsy.