Language
English
Publication Date
12-1-2024
Journal
Current Epidemiology Reports
DOI
10.1007/s40471-024-00349-z
PMID
40130013
PMCID
PMC11932714
PubMedCentral® Posted Date
3-24-2025
PubMedCentral® Full Text Version
Author MSS
Abstract
Purpose of review: Gut microbiota contribute to several physiological processes in the host. The composition of the gut microbiome is associated with different neurological and neurodevelopmental diseases. In psychiatric disease, stress may be a major factor leading to gut microbiota alterations. Depressive disorders are the most prevalent mental health issues worldwide and patients often report gastrointestinal symptoms. Accordingly, evidence of gut microbial alterations in depressive disorders has been growing. Here we review current literature revealing links between the gut microbiome and brain function in the context of depression.
Recent findings: The gut-brain axis could impact the behavioral manifestation of depression and the underlying neuropathology via multiple routes: the HPA axis, immune function, the enteric nervous system, and the vagus nerve. Furthermore, we explore possible therapeutic interventions including fecal microbiota transplant or probiotic supplementation in alleviating depressive symptoms.
Summary: Understanding the mechanisms by which bidirectional communication along the gut-brain axis can be dysregulated in patients with depression could lead to the development of personalized, microbiome-targeted therapies for the treatment of this disorder.
Keywords
Depression, Gut microbiome, HPA-axis, Immune system, Vagus nerve, Fecal microbiota transfer
Published Open-Access
yes
Recommended Citation
, "Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis in Psychiatry: Focus on Depressive Disorders" (2024). Faculty, Staff and Students Publications. 6071.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/baylor_docs/6071