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Sex shapes gut-microbiota-brain communication and disease
Kenton C Hokanson1, Caroline Hernández2, Grace E Deitzler2
1Department of Biochemistry & Biophysics, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA; Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA.
Trends in Microbiology
|October 9, 2023
Summary
Sex differences are crucial in the microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA), impacting health and disease. Research must include females to advance understanding and develop effective treatments for conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Microbiology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- The microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA) is a significant area of research with therapeutic potential.
- Sex as a biological variable is largely overlooked in MGBA research.
- Sex differences are present at all levels of the MGBA.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in understanding sex differences within the MGBA.
- To highlight the scientific and ethical necessity of including female subjects in biomedical research.
- To use autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as a case study for sex-based disparities in MGBA research.
Main Methods:
- Review of current scientific literature on the MGBA and sex differences.
- Analysis of the interplay between sex steroids and gut microbiota.
- Examination of how these interactions influence neurodevelopmental disorders like ASD.
Main Results:
- Sex steroids significantly influence gut microbial composition.
- Gut microbes, in turn, modulate bioactive sex steroid levels.
- These bidirectional interactions impact the enteric nervous system, vagus nerve, and brain activity.
Conclusions:
- Acknowledging and studying sex differences is critical for a comprehensive understanding of the MGBA.
- The inclusion of females in research is a scientific and moral imperative.
- Addressing sex-based gaps in MGBA research is essential for developing inclusive and effective therapies, particularly for conditions such as ASD.
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