Gut Microbiome and Stress

Abstract

The roles of intestinal microorganisms in communication between the gut and brain are gaining increasing recognition. Microbiome driven gut-to-brain communication has been shown to influence stress-related responses in both human and animal models. Sufficient preclinical data are supporting the view that probiotic microorganisms have antidepression potentials. Preclinical evaluations in animal and human models suggested that certain probiotic strains possess anxiolytic activity, similar to antidepressants. The antidepressive effect may be mediated via the vagus nerve, spinal cord, immune systems, or neuroendocrine systems. Such bacterial interactions which cross the interdisciplinary field of microbiology and neurobiology have raised possible alternatives of microbial endocrinology as a natural way to combat stress and/or depression. This current review will address some of the current evidence, possible pathways, and targets of postulated mechanisms.