Clostridium butyricum enhances cognitive function in APP/PS1 mice by modulating neuropathology and regulating acetic acid levels in the gut microbiota

ABSTRACT The amyloid deposition-to-cognitive impairment pathway is crucial in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathogenesis, with gut microbes influencing its development. Our study evaluated Clostridium butyricum MIYAIRI 588 (CBM588) as a potential AD treatment. In APP/PS1 mice, CBM588 improved cognitive function and alleviated colonic tissue pathology by modulating tight junction proteins (upregulating Claudin 1, ZO-1, and Occludin) and reducing inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α mRNA). It also reduced Aβ plaque deposition in the brain, regulated the JNK/CDK5/GSK-3β pathway to inhibit Tau hyperphosphorylation, and maintained neuronal integrity by downregulating Bax/Bcl-2 and inflammatory cytokines, thereby inhibiting apoptosis. While not altering the overall gut flora structure, CBM588 increased acetate-producing bacteria and decreased pro-inflammatory genera, reducing lipopolysaccharide levels. It also elevated short-chain fatty acids, particularly acetate, in colonic feces and brain tissue. Sodium acetate further inhibited BV2 cell apoptosis by suppressing JAK/STAT signaling and reducing Aβ and p-Tau expressions. In conclusion, CBM588 holds great potential as a novel probiotic for AD control. IMPORTANCE The current study underscores the pivotal role of gut microbiota modulation in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease(AD). Our comprehensive evaluation of CBM588 demonstrates its remarkable potential to ameliorate cognitive impairment in APP/PS1 mice by modulating gut microbiota composition, upregulating short-chain fatty acids, particularly acetate, and mitigating neuroinflammation. These findings not only provide novel insights into the gut-brain axis in AD but also offer a promising therapeutic strategy, highlighting the importance of targeting gut microbiota in future AD research and interventions.