Gut-immune-brain interactions during neurodevelopment: from a brain-centric to a multisystem perspective

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Immunology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) and epileptic syndromes share complex neurobiological origins.
• Current treatments for NDDs and epilepsy primarily manage symptoms, failing to address root causes and leaving unmet clinical needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the role of the gut-immune-brain axis in NDDs and epilepsy.
• To highlight microbial dysbiosis and immune signaling as contributors to neurological pathologies.
• To investigate microbial management and immunomodulation as potential therapeutic strategies.

Main Methods:

• Review of emerging evidence on the gut microbiota's influence on brain development and function.
• Analysis of interactions within the gut-immune-brain axis.
• Exploration of therapeutic potential of microbial and immune interventions.

Main Results:

• The gut microbiota and immune responses significantly impact brain development and function.
• Microbial dysbiosis and immune signaling are implicated in the pathogenesis of NDDs and epilepsy.
• The gut-immune-brain axis represents a paradigm shift from a purely brain-centric view of these disorders.

Conclusions:

• An integrated view of the gut-immune-brain axis provides novel insights into NDDs and epilepsy.
• This perspective suggests innovative biomarkers and therapeutic strategies targeting the underlying causes of these conditions.