Title:Combinational Approaches Targeting Various Aspects Involved in Intestinal
Barrier Dysfunction-Induced Anxiety
Volume: 23
Issue: 11
Author(s): Anita Murugan Pallar and Pravin Popatrao Kale*
Affiliation:
- Department of Pharmacology, SVKM’s Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy, VLM Road, Vile Parle (w), Mumbai-400056, India
Keywords:
Anxiety, intestinal barrier dysfunction, gut brain axis, tight junction proteins, immune system, HPA axis, cortisol.
Abstract: Anxiety disorder is one of the most prevalent psychiatric disorders. The high prevalence
of comorbid gastrointestinal disorders and anxiety, as well as various limitations in current therapy,
have necessitated the search for alternative techniques. The Gut-Brain Axis is the connecting link
between the gut and the brain. One of the reasons for the Gut-Brain Axis malfunction resulting in
HPA axis stimulation and anxiety is intestinal barrier dysfunction. Gut microorganisms, lipopolysaccharides,
and other factors can stimulate the disruption of this intestinal barrier. Tight junction
proteins, the epithelial barrier, the mucosal membrane, the Toll-like receptor/Myeloid differentiation
factor 88 pathway, the activated immune system, and the HPA axis could all be potential targets
for anxiety caused by intestinal barrier disruption. Quercetin and Rebamipide, Berberine and
Agomelatine, Angiotensin II receptor type 1 blockers, and Lubiprostone can act on these targets to
provide an anxiolytic effect.