Involvement of gut microbiota in neuropsychiatric disorders and its therapeutic potential

Abstract

Accumulating evidence indicates that the gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in overall health through complex interactions along the gut-brain axis. The present study explores the intricate relationships between the gut microbiota and the gut-brain axis, emphasizing their involvement in various neuropsychiatric disorders and the distinctive microbial compositions associated with each condition. First, the crucial role of the gut microbiota in physiological processes within the brain is discussed, with particular attention to the complex bidirectional interactions and regulatory mechanisms underlying the brain–gut–microbiome system. Second, the influence of gut dysbiosis on several neuropsychiatric disorders such as major depressive disorder (MDD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and schizophrenia (SCZ), is extensively examined. The symptoms of each disorder are evaluated using animal behavioral assessments, which serve as the basis for analyzing the correlation between alterations in gut microbiota composition and behavioral abnormalities. Subsequently, strategies have suggested for addressing these neuropsychiatric disorders through the modulation of gut microbiota, such as probiotics and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), are reviewed. While existing studies provide a foundational understanding, further evidence is required to achieve a comprehensive understanding of gut microbiomebrain interactions and, consequently to develop robust and practical therapeutic and prophylactic strategies. By thoroughly reviewing the latest findings on the gut-brainaxis, this study aims to provide valuable insights for future research on the treatment and prevention of neuropsychiatric disorders based on gut microbiota.