Targeting the Microbiome to Improve Gut Health and Breathing Function After Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition characterized by impaired motor and sensory function, as well as internal organ pathology and dysfunction. This internal organ dysfunction, particularly gastrointestinal (GI) complications, and neurogenic bowel, can reduce the quality of life of individuals with an SCI and potentially hinder their recovery. The gut microbiome impacts various central nervous system functions and has been linked to a number of health and disease states. An imbalance of the gut microbiome, i.e., gut dysbiosis, contributes to neurological disease and may influence recovery and repair processes after SCI. Here we examine the impact of high cervical SCI on the gut microbiome and find that transient gut dysbiosis with persistent gut pathology develops after SCI. Importantly, probiotic treatment improves gut health and respiratory motor function measured through whole-body plethysmography. Concurrent with these improvements was a systemic decrease in the cytokine tumor necrosis factor-alpha and an increase in neurite sprouting and regenerative potential of neurons. Collectively, these data reveal the gut microbiome as an important therapeutic target to improve visceral organ health and respiratory motor recovery after SCI. Research HighlightsO_LICervical spinal cord injury (SCI) causes transient gut dysbiosis and persistent gastrointestinal (GI) pathology. C_LIO_LITreatment with probiotics after SCI leads to a healthier GI tract and improved respiratory motor recovery. C_LIO_LIProbiotic treatment decreases systemic tumor necrosis factor-alpha and increases the potential for sprouting and regeneration of neurons after SCI. C_LIO_LIThe gut microbiome is a valid target to improve motor function and secondary visceral health after SCI. C_LI