Gut microbiota-derived indole-3-propionic acid preserves dorsal hippocampal catecholamines to prevent post-stroke cognitive impairment.

Gut microbiota-derived indole-3-propionic acid (IPA) prevents post-stroke cognitive impairment by preserving hippocampal catecholaminergic transmission in mice and humans.

• Why it matters: Post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) is linked to gut dysbiosis and metabolite deficiencies, but the causal mechanisms and therapeutic options remain unclear, hindering targeted treatments.
• What they did: The study analyzed gut microbiota alterations in PSCI patients and MCAO mice, identifying reduced IPA levels; it then tested IPA supplementation and explored its molecular interactions, focusing on Ywhab and ERK pathways.
• The result: Exogenous IPA improved cognitive function by maintaining dorsal hippocampal catecholamines and neuronal survival, highlighting Ywhab as a promising therapeutic target for PSCI.