Traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease: A focus on the microbiota-gut-brain axis

Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most frequent cause of dementia, is a neurodegenerative disorder characterised by a progressive decline in cognitive function that is associated with the formation of amyloid beta plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Gut microbiota comprises of a complex community of microorganisms residing in the gastrointestinal ecosystem. These microorganisms can participate in gut-brain axis activities, thereby affecting cognitive function and associated behaviours. Increasing evidence has indicated that gut dysbiosis can jeopardise host immune responses and promote inflammation, which may be an initiating factor for the onset and evolution of AD. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a promising resource which encompasses immense chemical di-versity and multiple-target characteristics for the treatment of AD. Many TCMs regulate the gut microbiota during treatment of diseases, indicating that gut microbiota may be an important target for TCM efficacy. In this review, we summarised the role of the microbiota-gut-brain axis in the development of AD and the effects of TCM in treating AD by regulating the gut microbiota. We anticipate that this review will provide novel per-spectives and strategies for future AD research and treatments.

Automated summary

Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline and the formation of amyloid beta plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Gut microbiota, a complex community of microorganisms in the gastrointestinal system, can impact cognitive function through the gut-brain axis. Imbalance in gut microbiota can lead to immune dysregulation and inflammation, potentially contributing to the onset and progression of Alzheimer's disease. Traditional Chinese medicine shows promise in treating Alzheimer's disease by regulating gut microbiota. This review provides insights and strategies for future Alzheimer's disease research and treatment.