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Sustainable next-generation prebiotics for brain health: microbiota–gut–brain axis in neurodegenerative and demyelinating diseases

delete2026-07-18
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PRE
AI
L
Luna Barrera‐Chamorro
T
Teresa Gonzalez‐de la Rosa
J
Joaquin Arzalluz-Luque
M
María Torrecillas-López
C
Carmen Claro
M
Maria D. Navarro-Hortal
S
Sara Eichau
M
Maria I. Garcia-Sanchez
S
Sergio Montserrat-de la Paz *
DOI:10.1080/10408398.2026.2703335delete
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Abstract

Abstract

En 中文
Neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and multiple sclerosis, are increasingly associated with disruption of the microbiota–gut–brain axis. Common alterations include reduced beneficial microbial taxa, impaired short-chain fatty acid production, intestinal and blood–brain barrier dysfunction, and sustained inflammatory responses. These findings support the development of microbiota-targeted dietary interventions. This review summarizes current evidence on polyphenols, bioactive peptides, and pectin-derived oligosaccharides (POS) as prebiotic or prebiotic-like compounds with potential activity through the microbiota–gut–brain axis. Particular attention is given to structure–function relationships, host–microbe interactions, and the sustainable recovery of these compounds from food by-products. Preclinical studies suggest that these bioactives may reduce microglial activation, improve mitochondrial function, strengthen intestinal and blood–brain barrier integrity, and enhance cognitive or motor performance. Early clinical studies also indicate possible benefits on mood, selected cognitive outcomes, metabolic regulation, and inflammatory biomarkers, although evidence remains limited. Microbiota-derived metabolites from polyphenols, such as urolithins, together with glycomacropeptide and POS, appear to be key mediators. However, clinical validation in major neurodegenerative diseases remains fragmented. Standardized formulations, mechanistic trials, harmonized endpoints, and precision-nutrition strategies are required to confirm their therapeutic potential.
Keywords:
Bioactive peptides
microbiota-gut-brain axis
multiple sclerosis
pectin
polyphenols

Journal

Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition cover
Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition
IF:
8.8
Papers:
5.0K
Citations:
4.9W

Organization

H
Hospital Universitario Virgen Macarena
Scholars:
2.8K
Papers: 1.9K
Citations: 1.7K
H
hospital universitario virgen del rocio
Scholars:
134
Papers: 79
Citations: 1
U
university of seville
Scholars:
464
Papers: 204
Citations: 0
V
virgen macarena hospital biobank
Scholars:
2
Papers: 1
Citations: 0
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