The Microbiota-Gut-Brain Connection: A New Horizon in Neurological and Neuropsychiatric Disorders

Abstract

Introduction

The microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA), a complex two-way connection between the gut microbiota and the brain, has become a key regulator of neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. Neurological disorders and gut microbiota dysbiosis are linked to these diseases. Changes in gut microbiota can lead to neurotransmitter imbalances, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation. Gut dysbiosis may contribute to the development of diseases such as depression, autism, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, dementia, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, anxiety, and autism spectrum disorders through immunological regulation, neuroinflammation, and neurotransmitter metabolism changes.

Method

This review systematically sourced articles related to microbiota gut brain axis, neurological disorders, neuropsychiatric disorders and clinical studies from major medical databases, including Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science.

Results

This review explores the molecular processes underlying MGBA interactions, including vagus nerve signaling, systemic immunological responses, and metabolites produced by microorganisms. The discussion explores the potential of microbiome-targeted treatments like fecal microbiota transplantation, probiotics, and prebiotics as effective treatment methods. The comprehension of the MGBA can revolutionize neurology and psychiatry, introducing innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Multiple elements, including diet, metabolism, age, stress, and medications, shape the human gut microbiota, and intestinal imbalances can lead to CNS diseases. The MGBA interacts with gut bacteria, and gut dysbiosis is associated with neurological disorders.

Conclusions

The review demonstrates the correlation between gut microbiota and neurologically associated diseases, highlighting its importance in neurogenesis, mental development, emotions, and behaviors. MGBA, mediated by microbial metabolites, affects brain function and neuroinflammation. Interventions like fetal microbiota transplantation, probiotics, and prebiotics can improve microbial balance, but more clinical research is needed.