Dual-directional regulation of spinal cord injury and the gut microbiota

This review discusses the relationship between gut microbiota and spinal cord injury (SCI). It highlights that SCI patients often experience intestinal dysfunction and gut dysbiosis, which can hinder recovery due to neurogenic inflammatory responses. The review identifies key factors contributing to gut dysbiosis in SCI patients, including weakened intestinal peristalsis, immune dysfunction, and frequent antibiotic use. These factors disrupt the balance of the gut microbiota. It also explores potential mechanisms through which the gut microbiota and its metabolites affect recovery after SCI, such as the cytokine and Toll-like receptor ligand pathways. Therapies like fecal microbiota transplantation and probiotics show promise.

• 1
  Gut dysbiosis in SCI patients profoundly influences multiple organs and systems, potentially leading to metabolic syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and depression.
• 2
  Autonomic dysfunction caused by SCI disrupts intestinal and immune function, leading to intestinal microecology imbalances and contributing to gut dysbiosis.
• 3
  The repeated use of antibiotics after SCI contributes to disruptions in the gut microbiota, further exacerbating gut dysbiosis.