14/10/2025
A new study looked at identical twins where one has multiple sclerosis (MS) and the other doesn’t. Researchers compared their gut microbes and then put tiny samples from the small intestine (the ileum) into specially bred germ-free mice. Mice that received microbes from the twin with MS developed MS-like illness more often than mice that got microbes from the healthy twin. Some of the suspect microbes were from the Lachnospiraceae family (e.g., Eisenbergiella tayi, Lachnoclostridium).
Important caveats:
This was done in mice, not humans. Mouse models help us generate ideas, not prove cause and effect in people.
The mice were genetically primed to develop MS-like disease, so results may not translate directly to everyday human biology.
Finding different bacteria or triggering disease in a model doesn’t mean those microbes cause MS in humans. It shows a possible link to investigate further.
Bottom line: Fascinating science that supports the gut–brain connection, but not a reason to jump to treatments or blame one “bad bug.” If you’re living with MS or gut symptoms, chat with a qualified health practitioner for individual guidance while we watch this space for human studies.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40258140/
