The Gut–Brain Axis in Obesity: Mechanisms, Development, and Therapeutic Perspectives

Abstract

Purpose of review: This narrative review analyses the implication of obesity-associated gut microbiota dysbiosis, as well as the associated impairments in gut-brain axis communication, in the onset and development of this chronic metabolic disease. Recent findings: Gut microbiota dysbiosis, which is a common feature in individuals with obesity, is considered among the factors leading to its development. In fact, dietary habits not only modulate the composition of gut microbiota, but also the release of microbe-derived metabolites such as SCFAs, which in turn participate in the gut-brain axis communication. Interestingly, the approaches often used for obesity management, including lifestyle modification-based interventions, pharmacotherapy or the usage of bioactives (such as phenolic compounds or probiotics) have also been shown to restore the impairments in gut-brain axis communication associated to this disease. In this regard, the recovery of gut microbiota eubiosis and improvement of the intestinal barrier function, as well as the modulation of microbial metabolite production, have been described as potential underlying mechanisms of action. Summary: The review highlights the importance of the gut-brain axis in obesity, both in the development as well as the management of this chronic metabolic disease. However, further research is warranted in order to corroborate the current findings and to better elucidate the mechanisms underlying this complex signalling network. Doing so, valuable information that will pave the way for the development of more specific and effective obesity treatments may be obtained.