The mechanism of disease progression by aging and age-related gut dysbiosis in multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common demyelinating disease caused by a multifaceted interplay of genetic predispositions and environmental factors. Most patients initially experience the relapsing-remitting form of the disease (RRMS), which is characterized by episodes of neurological deficits followed by periods of symptom resolution. However, over time, many individuals with RRMS advance to a progressive form of the disease, known as secondary progressive MS (SPMS), marked by a gradual worsening of symptoms without periods of remission. The mechanisms underlying this transition remain largely unclear, and current disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) are partially effective in treating SPMS. Age is widely acknowledged as a risk factor for the transition from RRMS to SPMS. One factor associated with aging that may influence the progression of MS is gut dysbiosis. This review discusses how aging and age-related gut dysbiosis affect the progression of MS.