Title:Bridging the Mind and Gut: Uncovering the Intricacies of Neurotransmitters,
Neuropeptides, and their Influence on Neuropsychiatric Disorders
Volume: 24
Issue: 1
Author(s): Saumya Gupta, Susha Dinesh*Sameer Sharma
Affiliation:
- Department of Bioinformatics, BioNome, Bengaluru, India
Keywords:
Gut-brain axis, neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, neuropsychiatric disorders, signaling pathway, microbiota.
Abstract:
Background: The gut-brain axis (GBA) is a bidirectional signaling channel that facilitates
communication between the gastrointestinal tract and the brain. Recent research on the gut-brain axis
demonstrates that this connection enables the brain to influence gut function, which in turn influences
the brain and its cognitive functioning. It is well established that malfunctioning of this axis
adversely affects both systems' ability to operate effectively.
Objective: Dysfunctions in the GBA have been associated with disorders of gut motility and permeability,
intestinal inflammation, indigestion, constipation, diarrhea, IBS, and IBD, as well as neuropsychiatric
and neurodegenerative disorders like depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, autism, Alzheimer's,
and Parkinson's disease. Multiple research initiatives have shown that the gut microbiota, in
particular, plays a crucial role in the GBA by participating in the regulation of a number of key neurochemicals
that are known to have significant effects on the mental and physical well-being of an
individual.
Methods: Several studies have investigated the relationship between neuropsychiatric disorders and
imbalances or disturbances in the metabolism of neurochemicals, often leading to concomitant gastrointestinal
issues and modifications in gut flora composition. The interaction between neurological
diseases and gut microbiota has been a focal point within this research. The novel therapeutic interventions
in neuropsychiatric conditions involving interventions such as probiotics, prebiotics, and
dietary modifications are outlined in this review.
Results: The findings of multiple studies carried out on mice show that modulating and monitoring
gut microbiota can help treat symptoms of such diseases, which raises the possibility of the use of
probiotics, prebiotics, and even dietary changes as part of a new treatment strategy for neuropsychiatric
disorders and their symptoms.
Conclusion: The bidirectional communication between the gut and the brain through the gut-brain
axis has revealed profound implications for both gastrointestinal and neurological health. Malfunctions
in this axis have been connected to a range of disorders affecting gut function as well as cognitive
and neuropsychiatric well-being. The emerging understanding of the role of gut microbiota in
regulating key neurochemicals opens up possibilities for novel treatment approaches for conditions
like depression, anxiety, and neurodegenerative diseases.