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The gut–brain axis is a bidirectional communication system that connects the gastrointestinal tract and the brain. This interaction is mediated through multiple pathways, including the vagus nerve, hormonal signals, immune responses, and chemical messengers produced by gut microbes.Microbial Contributions to Brain FunctionGut microbiota contributes significantly to brain function by producing neuroactive compounds. These include neuroactive compounds that influence neurotransmitters such...
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Metabolic tinkering by the gut microbiome: Implications for brain development and function.

Joel Selkrig1, Peiyan Wong2, Xiaodong Zhang3

  • 1School of Biological Sciences; Nanyang Technological University; Singapore, Singapore; Lee Kong Chain School of Medicine; Nanyang Technological University; Singapore, Singapore.

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The gut microbiome provides essential nutrients for brain development by fermenting dietary components. Environmental changes affecting gut microbes can disrupt nutrient supply, impacting brain development and function.

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glucosegut microbiotahypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axismetabolismmicrobiota-gut-brain axisneurodevelopmentshort chain fatty acidsβ-hydroxybutyrate

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Microbiology
  • Nutritional Science

Background:

  • Brain development requires significant energy and nutrients from diet.
  • Gut microbiota ferment dietary components, yielding energy for the host.
  • This microbial contribution can account for up to 10% of daily caloric needs.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of the gut microbiome in brain development.
  • To explore how environmental variations impact gut microbiota and nutrient supply.
  • To postulate the effects of these changes on brain development and function.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of research on gut microbiome, nutrition, and brain development.
  • Analysis of nutrient contribution from gut microbial fermentation.
  • Discussion of environmental factors influencing the gut microbiome.

Main Results:

  • Gut microbiota play a crucial role in providing energy for brain development.
  • Nutrient yield from gut microbiota fluctuates with environmental changes.
  • Perturbations in microbial nutrient supply are linked to altered brain development.

Conclusions:

  • The gut microbiome is integral to normal brain development.
  • Environmental variations impacting gut microbiota can negatively affect brain development.
  • Maintaining a healthy gut microbiome is vital for optimal brain function.