How the gut microbiome shapes learning and memory: A comprehensive review

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Microbiology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Cognitive functions, including learning and memory, are intrinsically linked to the gut microbiome.
• The gut-brain axis (GBA) facilitates bidirectional communication, crucial for regulating cognitive processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the gut microbiome's impact on learning and memory.
• To elucidate the role of the GBA in cognitive function through a narrative review.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of scientific articles focusing on the gut microbiome, GBA, learning, and memory.
• Analysis of studies examining the relationship between microbial composition and cognitive performance.

Main Results:

• Gut microbiome influences brain function via vagus nerve signaling, neurotransmitter production, inflammation regulation, and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production.
• Gut dysbiosis negatively affects hippocampal function, learning, and stress regulation.
• Probiotics, prebiotics, and nutrition modulate the gut microbiome's composition and function.

Conclusions:

• Balancing the gut microbiome and supporting the GBA can improve cognitive functions.
• Microbiome-based interventions, including probiotics and dietary adjustments, show potential for enhancing cognitive performance.
• Understanding the gut microbiome-GBA connection offers new avenues for preventing learning and memory disorders.