Impact of probiotic supplementation on gut-brain neuroplasticity in a mouse model of cuprizone-induced demyelination

The aim of this research thesis was to characterize the role of the microbiota-gut-brain axis on the structural and functional integrity of the central and enteric nervous systems in an murine model of toxic demyelination induced by the oral administration of 0.2% cuprizone. Then, by using probiotic supplementation of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, we explored the role of microbiota-host interactions in multiple sclerosis-associated gut dysfunctions and their relationship to cognition. Behavioral, molecular and functional assays were performed to identify the pathophysiological pathways that affect gut homeostasis probably preceding the onset of central signs/symptoms, as well as to evaluate the effect of gut microbiome modulation on the severity of demyelination.