Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in the US have launched a phase 1 clinical trial demonstrating that fecal microbiota transplants (FMT) could help ease addiction-related digestive issues, including alcoholism.
The concept of using fecal microbiota transplants (FMT) to boost health isn't new, but growing awareness of the gut microbiome's vital role has sparked renewed interest. Studies show it influences everything from digestion to immunity.
In related work, scientists are testing FMT to restore gut microbial balance in colorectal cancer patients, zeroing in on Fusobacterium nucleatum, which appears more abundant in their tissues compared to healthy individuals.
A VCU team explored the gut microbiome's link to addiction, specifically whether FMT could curb drinking in people with severe alcoholism.
Animal studies had already hinted at benefits for alcohol-related behaviors. This study marks the first rigorous, placebo-controlled human trial, with findings published in the journal Hepatology.
The trial involved 20 men in their mid-60s with alcohol use disorder and alcohol-related liver cirrhosis. Ten received a placebo; the other ten got FMT enriched with Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae—bacteria often depleted in alcoholism patients.
Participants were assessed at two weeks and six months for physiological and behavioral changes.
Key finding: Nine of the ten FMT recipients reported reduced cravings for alcohol (and smoking) after two weeks, leading to less drinking overall. Only three of ten in the placebo group saw similar improvements.
As a phase 1 trial, the focus was primarily on safety, which was confirmed. Researchers caution against overinterpreting these preliminary results.
"This phase 1 trial concludes that FMT is safe for men with cirrhosis. It's also linked to reduced cravings, short-term lower alcohol use, and positive microbial shifts," the authors note. "These early findings offer a potential ray of hope for those battling addiction-related conditions."
