Probiotics Counteract Gut Microbial Dysbiosis and Long-Term Neural degeneration in Male and Female CD1

Changes in the intestinal microbial composition (dysbiosis) during development have an impact on the progression of neuro-inflammatory and neuronal degenerative disorders. Probiotics have been shown to reduce these effects. However, the current literature lacks research on intestinal dysbiosis during the maturation of the intestine and the brain and does not recognize the sexual dimorphism of the neuro-inflammatory and degenerative neural pathways either. The objective of our research is to determine the mechanisms of neuro-inflammation induced by dysbiosis during development and its relationships with neurodegeneration. Bacterial dysbiosis will be induced via antibiotics in mice. Subsequently, the mice will receive probiotics. Then, an acute immune response will be induced by injection of lipopolysaccharide or saline solution. The microbial composition as well as the immune responses and neuro-inflammation will be assessed. Then, microglial activation will be monitored over the long term, as well as neural oxidation, necrosis and cognitive measures. This research will expand our knowledge of the mechanisms underlying the development of neurodegenerative diseases.

Faculty Supervisor:

Nafissa Ismail

Student:

Partner:

Université Bourgogne - Franche-Comté

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology; Life Sciences (not health); Environmental Science and Technology

University:

University of Ottawa

Program: