HFS (High-Fiber Supplement) in MS (Multiple Sclerosis)

Our collaborator, Dr. Liping Zhao, developed a high-fiber supplement (HFS), NBT-NM108. His recent study has suggested an association between intake of NBT-NM108 and increased abundance of short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing gut bacteria. Recent studies have suggested that Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS) is associated with gut dysbiosis, alteration of gut bacteria, and decreased production of SCFAs. Therefore, we have investigated the effect of NBT-NM108 on RRMS-associated gut dysbiosis and the cytokines produced by immune cells. Seven patients were enrolled, and their stool samples were collected before the treatment with NBT-NM108 (Baseline). Three patients from the enrolled patients consumed NBT-NM108 three times a day at 60 g/day for 8 weeks. Two patients further consumed NBT-NM108 for four more weeks (a total of 12 weeks). Stool and blood samples were collected at 3 time points (baseline, 8 weeks post-NBT-NM108, and 12 weeks post-NBT-NM108). We have investigated the effect of NBT-NM108 on gut microbiota and immune parameters involved in MS.

Inclusion criteria

Patients with the first demyelinating event who meet the McDonald criteria for relapsing remitting MS.

Exclusion criteria

• Primary or secondary progressive MS.
• Patients with autoimmune comorbidities.
• Having received prior chemotherapy.
• Having received Dimethylfumarate (DMF).
• Pregnant women.
• Cognitively impaired.
• Antibiotic use within last 6 months.
• Probiotic use within 2 months.
• Self-reported allergy or intolerance to any ingredients in the fiber supplement.
• Self-reported or diagnosed gastrointestinal symptoms, disorders or adenomas.
• Active or history of malignant tumors.