The effects of gut microbiota on CNS function in humans

Abstract

The role of the gastrointestinal microbiota in human brain development and function is an area of increasing interest and research. Preclinical models suggest a role for the microbiota in broad aspects of human health, including mood, cognition, and chronic pain. Early human studies suggest that altering the microbiota with beneficial bacteria, or probiotics, can lead to changes in brain function, as well as subjective reports of mood. As the mechanisms of bidirectional communication between the brain and microbiota are better understood, it is expected that these pathways will be harnessed to provide novel methods to enhance health and treat disease.

Keywords: anxiety; brain-gut axis; depression; microbiota; probiotic.

Figures

Figure 1. Potential routes of communication between the microbiota and the brain are shown. Multiple inputs from the periphery can act centrally to modulate mood, pain sensitivity, cognition, and behavior.