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Correlation between depressive-like behavior and gut microbiota in mice with hypothyroidism
Han-Jie Guo1,2, Xiao-Qing Ma1, Yan-Ting Li3
1Department of General Surgery, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510005, Guangdong Province, China.
World Journal of Psychiatry
|July 31, 2025
Summary
This study links gut bacteria changes to depression-like behaviors in hypothyroid mice. Specific bacteria like Bilophila and Gordonibacter showed correlations with mood and activity, suggesting a gut-brain axis connection.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Microbiology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Hypothyroidism is linked to depression, but mechanisms are unclear.
- The gut microbiota's role in this association needs further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the gut microbiota's influence on depressive-like behaviors in a mouse model of hypothyroidism.
- To analyze bacterial composition changes associated with hypothyroidism and depressive symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Hypothyroidism induced with propylthiouracil in mice.
- Behavioral tests (SPT, FST, TST, OFT) assessed depressive-like behaviors.
- Gut microbiota analyzed via 16S rRNA sequencing; inflammation and gut barrier markers measured.
Main Results:
- Hypothyroid mice showed depressive behaviors, gut dysfunction, inflammation, and dysbiosis.
- Specific bacteria (e.g., Bilophila, Gordonibacter, Prevotellaceae_UCG_001, Streptococcus) correlated with behavioral outcomes.
- Gut microbiota alterations were associated with depressive symptoms and inflammation.
Conclusions:
- Gut microbiota composition is potentially linked to depressive symptoms in hypothyroidism.
- Specific bacterial taxa may influence mood and behavior via the gut-brain axis in this model.
