Involvement of uridine in brain and gut health: insights into its neuroprotective potential via the gut-brain axis

Abstract

The intricate interplay between the brain and gut, often referred to as the gut-brain axis, has emerged as a cornerstone of health and disease. This bidirectional communication network, mediated by neural, hormonal, immune, and microbial signals, plays a pivotal role in maintaining homeostasis and influencing both neurological and gastrointestinal functions. Dysregulation of the gut-brain axis is implicated in various neurological and gastrointestinal disorders, highlighting the need to explore novel therapeutic strategies targeting this axis. Uridine, an endogenous pyrimidine nucleoside that is also obtained through dietary sources, has recently gained increasing attention for its neuroprotective and gut-modulating properties. Known for its critical role in RNA synthesis, membrane phospholipid production, and neurotransmitter regulation, uridine has demonstrated potential in enhancing synaptic plasticity, reducing inflammation, and supporting neuronal survival. Emerging evidence also suggests that uridine may influence gut health by promoting epithelial integrity, modulating the gut microbiota, and reducing intestinal inflammation. Given the interconnected nature of the gut and brain, uridine’s dual actions present a compelling opportunity to explore its role in modulating the gut-brain axis as a means of achieving neuroprotection. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the effect of uridine on brain and gut health, with a particular focus on its potential to influence the gut-brain axis.