Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Akkermansia muciniphila: driving the multiple sclerosis-a systematic review.

The gut microbiota (GM) is a complex microbial ecosystem, and its alteration contributes to the development of several diseases including multiple sclerosis (MS). Progressive research concerning neurodegenerative diseases and GM reveals that GM dysbiosis has been linked to fostering the development and progression of MS. Among existing bacteria, F.prausnitzii and A.muciniphila are key species implicated in this disease. Thus, the present study systematically reviewed and synthesized the research on the involvement of F. prausnitzii and A. muciniphila in MS patients versus healthy individuals. We systematically searched PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases for relevant published articles from January 2010 till January 2023. Out of 400 articles, 16 met the required criteria. The included research investigations originated from the US, Germany, Norway, Egypt, Iran, Brazil, China, the UK, and Romania. Most publications reported decreased levels of F. prausnitzii and increased levels of A. muciniphila in MS patients compared to controls. This review underscored the importance of the F. prausnitzii and A. muciniphila in MS, which could explain the chronic inflammation that characterizes this disease and not only help in understanding its etiology and progression but also open new avenues for the treatment strategies focusing on gut health. Moreover, understanding the role of F. prausnitzii and A. muciniphila could lead to novel biomarkers for early detection and progression monitoring MS.