Gut bacteria linked to key brain chemicals in first-of-its-kind human study
The neuroactive potential of bacteria living in the human gut is associated with levels of key chemicals in the brain, according to a new study published in Molecular Psychiatry. The research team from the University of Surrey and the University of Roehampton found that microbial pathways involved in producing and breaking down neuroactive compounds were associated with levels of GABA and…
A groundbreaking study published in Molecular Psychiatry reveals a link between gut bacteria and key brain chemicals in humans. Researchers from the University of Surrey and the University of Roehampton investigated the gut microbiome and brain chemistry in 61 healthy young women aged 17-25. Using noninvasive brain imaging and gut microbiome analysis, they discovered that specific microbial pathways were associated with neurotransmitters like GABA and glutamate in different brain regions.
The study highlights the complexity of the gut-brain axis, with varying relationships between microbial pathways and brain chemistry in distinct regions. While the findings suggest potential links between certain gut microbial functions and psychological well-being, the researchers emphasize that the results indicate associations rather than direct causation.
Further research is needed to determine whether manipulating these microbial pathways can influence brain chemistry.
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