Gut-Brain Axis and Brain Microbiome Interactions from a Medical Perspective

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Microbiology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• The gut microbiome significantly impacts brain health and function.
• A potential brain microbiome and the gut-brain axis connection are increasingly recognized.
• Imbalances in gut microbes may link to neurological diseases like Alzheimer's.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review current research on the gut-brain axis.
• To analyze the relationship between the gut microbiome and the brain.
• To identify and address knowledge gaps in this field.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was performed on PubMed.
• Predefined Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms were utilized for the search.
• Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to select relevant studies.

Main Results:

• An initial search yielded 2716 articles from PubMed.
• After applying selection criteria, 63 relevant papers were identified.
• The selected studies form the basis for this systematic review.

Conclusions:

• Gut bacteria produce neuroactive compounds influencing brain function.
• The vagus nerve, central nervous system, and immune system mediate the gut-brain connection.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms of the gut-brain axis and brain microbiome interactions.