Study Points to Two Bacteria as Possible Causes for Multiple Sclerosis

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00:00Study points to two bacteria as possible causes for multiple sclerosis.

00:09Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the myelin

00:13sheath protecting nerve fibers.

00:15This disrupts signals between the brain and body, causing symptoms like muscle weakness,

00:20vision problems, numbness, balance issues, and chronic fatigue.

00:24The name multiple sclerosis refers to the many scars left on nerves by damaged myelin.

00:30Symptoms vary widely, but reflect the central nervous system damage caused when the immune

00:34system mistakenly targets healthy tissue.

00:38A study of 81 identical twin pairs, where only one twin had MS, revealed two gut bacteria

00:47– Eisenberghiela taii and Lachnoclostridium – were more common in the affected twins,

00:53highlighting an environmental trigger rather than a genetic one.

01:00Researchers transplanted gut microbes into germ-free mice.

01:03Mice receiving microbes from MS affected twins developed MS-like inflammation and paralysis,

01:09while mice receiving microbes from healthy twins stayed symptom-free.

01:16These bacteria feed on mucus sugars, which normally protect the intestinal lining.

01:21Fiber growth can weaken this barrier and increase body-wide inflammation, possibly sparking or

01:26worsening autoimmune activity.

01:31The findings suggest future therapies might target the harmful bacteria, using tailored

01:36antibiotics, bacteriophages, or dietary changes like increased fiber to foster a healthier

01:42gut environment.