Background Atherosclerosis (AS), the pathological basis of cardiovascular diseases, is a major cause of global mortality. Gut microbiota dysbiosis contributes to AS progression via trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), inflammation, and vascular dysfunction. Probiotics have emerged as a potential strategy against AS.Objective To systematically review the mechanisms, efficacy, and future perspectives of probiotics in atherosclerosis.Methods Preclinical and clinical evidence was summarized, focusing on gut microbiota, TMAO, short-chain fatty acids, lipid metabolism, inflammation, and vascular function.Results Probiotics exert anti-atherosclerotic effects by restoring gut microbiota composition, reducing TMAO, increasing short-chain fatty acids, improving lipid profiles, alleviating inflammation, and protecting endothelial function. Clinical trials support beneficial effects on metabolic and vascular risk factors but are limited by small sample sizes and short durations.Conclusions Probiotics are a promising and safe approach for AS intervention. Future large-scale, long-term trials and optimized probiotic designs are required to facilitate clinical application.
[1]Yunnan Canc Hosp, Kunming, Yunnan, Peoples R China.
[2]Kunming Med Univ, Affiliated Hosp 3, Kunming, Yunnan, Peoples R China.
[3]Peking Univ, Canc Hosp Yunnan, Kunming, Yunnan, Peoples R China.
(8.0+极速模式)