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Updated: Jul 7, 2025

Intracerebroventricular Delivery of Gut-Derived Microbial Metabolites in Freely Moving Mice
Published on: June 2, 2022
Bifidobacterium breve M-16V regulates the autonomic nervous system via the intestinal environment: A double-blind,
Natsumi Mutoh1, Masamichi Moriya2, Chendong Xu1
1Innovative Research Institute, Morinaga Milk Industry Co., Ltd., 1-83, 5-Chome, Higashihara, Zama-city, Kanagawa 252-8583, Japan.
Abstract:
We conducted a randomized controlled trial to investigate the potential of Bifidobacterium breve M-16 V to improve mood in humans. In this evaluation, we incorporated the use of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), which has been used to evaluate mood states in studies with small sample sizes. Participants were given B. breve M-16 V (20 billion cells/day) for 6 weeks, and their mood state was assessed before and after ingestion. NIRS data were collected at rest and during a mental arithmetic task (under stress). Intake of B. breve M-16 V decreased the heart rate under stress and increased levels of the GABA-like substance pipecolic acid in stool samples. In addition, B. breve M-16 V improved mood and sleep scores in participants with high anxiety levels. These results suggest that B. breve M-16 V affects the metabolites of the gut microbiota and has the potential to modulate the autonomic nervous system and to improve mood and sleep.
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