Gut microbiota-immune-brain axis (MGBA) (MGBA)

The gut microbiota-immune-brain axis is a complex, bidirectional communication network that integrates the gastrointestinal tract, its resident microorganisms, the host immune system, and the central nervous system (CNS) [Cryan JF, et al. (2019). Physiological Reviews]. This axis facilitates signaling through multiple pathways, including the vagus nerve, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and the production of microbial metabolites like short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and neurotransmitters [Rutsch A, et al. (2020). Frontiers in Immunology]. The immune system serves as a vital mediator, where gut-derived signals influence systemic inflammation and neuroinflammation, ultimately impacting brain health and behavior [Belkaid Y, Hand TW. (2014). Cell]. Dysregulation of this system is linked to various pathologies, including neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, psychiatric disorders like depression and anxiety, and autoimmune conditions [Mayer EA, et al. (2015). Journal of Clinical Investigation]. Therapeutic strategies targeting this axis involve the use of probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation to restore microbial homeostasis and modulate immune-brain signaling [Rutsch A, et al. (2020). Frontiers in Immunology]. Understanding this axis provides a framework for developing novel psychobiotics that leverage the microbiome to treat neurological and mental health conditions [Cryan JF, et al. (2019). Physiological Reviews].

Other names

Microbiota-gut-brain axisGut-brain axisMicrobiome-gut-brain axisGBA

Modulation of gut microbial composition and metabolite production to influence systemic immune signaling and neural pathways via the vagus nerve and HPA axis [Cryan JF, et al. (2019). Physiological Reviews].