Multistrain probiotics modulate tau pathology and preserve visuospatial cognition in early cognitive impairment: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial.

In 30 seconds

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated the effects of a multistrain probiotic supplement on plasma biomarkers and cognitive function in 87 older adults with early cognitive impairment. The probiotic group showed a significant reduction in plasma phosphorylated tau 181 (p < 0.001) and improved Clinical Dementia Rating Sum of Boxes scores (p = 0.010), particularly in memory and visuospatial tasks.

Key findings

• Probiotic group had a significant reduction in plasma pTau181 compared to placebo (p < 0.001).
• Improved CDR-SB scores in the probiotic group (p = 0.010), mainly in memory.
• Visuospatial construction task performance improved with probiotics (Constructional Praxis, p = 0.036).
• Placebo group showed significant declines in constructional recall (p = 0.025).

Why it matters

The study highlights the potential of microbiota-targeted interventions in modulating biomarkers and preserving cognitive function in early cognitive impairment, suggesting a novel non-pharmacological approach to managing Alzheimer's disease.