Unlocking the Gut-Brain-Axis: A Pilot Study Protocol on Faecal Microbiota Transplantation and Cognitive Function — The Association Specialists
  1. Schedule
  2. Data Blitz Presentations: Clinical Neuroscience of Stress and Mood
  3. Unlocking the Gut-Brain-Axis: A Pilot Study Protocol on Faecal Microbiota Transplantation and Cognitive Function

Unlocking the Gut-Brain-Axis: A Pilot Study Protocol on Faecal Microbiota Transplantation and Cognitive Function (22026)

Sara Alaeddin 1 , Yanna Ko 1 , Genevieve Steiner 2 , Tara Roberts 1 , Slade Jensen 1 , Vincent Ho 1
  1. School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
  2. NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Westmead, NSW, Australia

Faecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT) is an emerging, gut-microbiome altering therapy showing promising results for various gastrointestinal and neurological disorders (Bakker & Nieuwdorp, 2017). Previous research suggests that FMT might improve cognitive function in neurodegenerative diseases (Chen et al., 2023; Cheng et al., 2023; Kim et al., 2024; Park et al., 2022). Additionally, studies on other microbiome altering techniques, such as probiotics, indicate effects on cognitive functions in healthy adults (Cannavale et al., 2023; Chung et al., 2016). However, to the best of our knowledge, no clinical trials have yet investigated the efficacy of FMT on cognition in cognitively unimpaired adults.  To address this gap, we are conducting a pilot study to explore the impact of FMT on cognitive function in adults with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

In this randomised, controlled, double-blinded trial, participants have received a single dose of FMT or placebo, following comprehensive baseline testing. The primary outcome is cognitive function, while secondary outcomes include IBS symptom severity and mood. Additionally, microbiome composition and blood biomarkers, potentially reflecting changes in the microbiota-gut-brain axis, are assessed as tertiary outcomes.  Outcomes are being measured at baseline and at one, three, six and twelve months post-intervention.

This pilot study aims to explore potential changes in cognitive function following FMT or placebo. To assess a broad range of cognitive domains, including reaction time, verbal memory, working memory, visual memory, and problem-solving, we are using the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB). Data collection is set to conclude in December 2024.

 

 

 

 

  1. Bakker, G. J., & Nieuwdorp, M. (2017). Fecal Microbiota Transplantation: Therapeutic Potential for a Multitude of Diseases beyond Clostridium difficile. Microbiology spectrum, 5 4.
  2. Chen, X., et al., Preliminary evidence for developing safe and efficient fecal microbiota transplantation as potential treatment for aged related cognitive impairments. Front Cell Infect Microbiol, 2023. 13: p. 1103189.
  3. Cheng, Y., et al., Efficacy of fecal microbiota transplantation in patients with Parkinson's disease: clinical trial results from a randomized, placebo-controlled design. Gut Microbes, 2023. 15(2): p. 2284247.
  4. Kim, J.S., et al., Effect of altered gene expression in lipid metabolism on cognitive improvement in patients with Alzheimer's dementia following fecal microbiota transplantation: a preliminary study. Ther Adv Neurol Disord, 2024. 17: p. 17562864231218181.
  5. Park, S.H., et al., Fecal microbiota transplantation can improve cognition in patients with cognitive decline and Clostridioides difficile infection. Aging (Albany NY), 2022. 14(16): p. 6449-6466.
  6. Cannavale, C.N., et al., Consumption of a fermented dairy beverage improves hippocampal-dependent relational memory in a randomized, controlled cross-over trial. Nutritional Neuroscience, 2023. 26(3): p. 265-274.