Methamphetamine induces long-lasting dysbiosis of the gut microbiota

As a highly addictive and neurotoxic stimulant, methamphetamine poses a severe threat to public psychological well-being and social security. Dysbiosis of gut flora is presumed to be a potential mechanism for methamphetamine habituation. To test this hypothesis, we conducted a cross-species study to analyze the enduring effects of methamphetamine administration on the gut microbiome. Either in an abstinent cohort or sensitized mice, the microbial community remained distinct from controls even after a long-term methamphetamine withdrawal, establishing an emerging homeostasis through extensive interactions of symbionts. The dysbiosis was correlated to the duration of MA abuse. Within the discriminant genera, those in the order Clostridiales exhibited coordinated changes across hosts and functionally reshaped the gut flora, potentially contributing to recurring relapse of drug usage. These findings help comprehend the long-term detriment caused by methamphetamine and underscore the translational implications of leveraging gut microbiome analysis to combat MA-related criminal activities.