The gut-brain axis is a bidirectional communication network connecting to the central nervous system (CNS), plays a key role in the pathology of AD [
11,
12]. Emerging evidence suggests that changes in the composition and function of the gut microbiota may influence neuroinflammation, Aβ deposition, and tau pathology lead to the progression of AD [
12,
13,
14]. The gut microbiota produces a variety of neurotransmitters and neuroactive compounds that can modulate neurotransmitter signaling in the brain, influencing cognitive function and behavior. Tryptophan, tyrosine, and phenylalanine are the precursors for the serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine like potent neurotransmitters respectively. These are produced in the gut and crosstalk via the vagus nerve to the CNS [
15]. The gut also produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are immensely studied as bioactive in neurology [
15,
16]. Disruptions in the integrity of the intestinal barrier can lead to the translocation of gut-derived toxins and inflammatory molecules into the bloodstream, causing systemic inflammation and potentially worsening the immune system. aggravates neuroinflammation and neuronal damage [
13,
16,
17]. The dysbiosis in the gut triggers inflammatory cytokines, and mediators (e.g. TNF-α, IFN-γ, ILs, LPS, and so on) and makes leaky gut. A leaky gut allows inflammatory cytokines and mediators into the bloodstream and the enteric nervous system to PNS to CNS that may lead to chronic inflammation and disrupt the blood-brain barrier (BBB) [
16]. Compromised BBB allows antigens, pathogens, and inflammatory mediators in the CNS and damages the brain cells. Both animal and human studies have indicated that dysbiosis, characterized by an imbalance in the composition and activity of the microbiota, could be detrimental to normal physiological gut health. This disruption may contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as obesity, cardiovascular disease(CVD), and NDDs [
18]. Additionally, the gut microbiota is involved in the metabolism of dietary components, including nutrients and polyphenols, which may have a neuroprotective effect against AD. Therefore, targeting the gut-brain axis through dietary, probiotic, or prebiotic interventions is a promising treatment for Alzheimer's disease by modulating neuroinflammation, neurotransmitter signaling, and gut microbiota composition to enhance brain health and cognitive function. Recent studies suggest that anthocyanins possess beneficial effects on gut microbiota compositions and functions, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria while inhibiting the proliferation of harmful species [
19,
20]. This modulation of the gut microbiota can influence neurotransmitter production and signaling along the gut-brain axis, potentially impacting cognitive function and behavior [
19,
21]. Additionally, anthocyanins have been shown to inhibit the aggregation of amyloid-beta peptides and tau protein phosphorylation, two hallmark features of AD pathology and these are strongly associated with gut-brain axis [
12,
21]. Studies have shown that anthocyanins can enhance gut barrier integrity by promoting the expression of tight junction proteins (Occludin, Claudin, ZO-1), which help maintain the integrity of the gut epithelial barrier, thus reducing the translocation of harmful substances from the gut lumen into the bloodstream [
22,
23] (
Figure 1). Additionally, anthocyanins exhibit prebiotic-like effects by selectively promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria such as
Bifidobacteria and
Lactobacilli while inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria [
24]. This modulation of the gut microbiota can contribute to a balanced gut microbial community, which is essential for overall gut health and immune function. Furthermore, the metabolites produced by gut bacteria from anthocyanin fermentation may also exert beneficial effects on gut barrier functions and overall health. Thus, through their actions on both gut barrier functions and gut microbiota composition, ACNs demonstrate potential as therapeutic agents for promoting gastrointestinal health and preventing various gut-related disorders. Thus, through their effects on the gut-brain axis and their neuroprotective properties, anthocyanins represent a promising avenue for the prevention and treatment of AD.
Figure 1.
The role of anthocyanins on gut-brain axis.