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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 7, 2026

Probing the Brain in Autism Using fMRI and Diffusion Tensor Imaging

Probing the Brain in Autism Using fMRI and Diffusion Tensor Imaging

Published on: September 12, 2011

Microbiota-gut-brain axis in autism spectrum disorder: integrating brain structure, function, and transcriptomics.

Guoping Wang¹, Wenjing Liu², Yueqin Chen³

¹College of Medical Imaging and Laboratory, Jining Medical University, 272000, Jining, Shandong Province, China.

Translational Psychiatry

|July 5, 2026

Summary

Disruption of the microbiota-gut-brain axis is linked to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). While gut microbiome interventions show promise for ASD symptoms, more research is needed for clinical use.

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Probing the Brain in Autism Using fMRI and Diffusion Tensor Imaging

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Video Imaging and Spatiotemporal Maps to Analyze Gastrointestinal Motility in Mice

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Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Microbiology
Genetics

Background:

The microbiota-gut-brain (MGB) axis plays a crucial role in neurodevelopment and behavior.
Disruptions in the MGB axis are increasingly implicated in the pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Purpose of the Study:

To review and synthesize multidisciplinary data on the mechanistic links between the MGB axis and ASD.
To evaluate the efficacy and limitations of microbiota-targeted therapeutic strategies for ASD.

Main Methods:

Narrative synthesis of clinical and translational studies, including human cohorts, animal models, multi-omics, immune profiling, and neuroimaging.
Analysis of intervention trial outcomes and methodological challenges.

Main Results:

Individuals with ASD often display gut dysbiosis and altered metabolomic profiles impacting the central nervous system.
Bidirectional signaling pathways (metabolites, immune, neuroendocrine) connect gut microbes to brain function.
ASD-associated microbial profiles correlate with brain structural and functional changes.

Conclusions:

The MGB axis is a potential pathogenic mechanism and therapeutic target for ASD.
Microbiota interventions show preliminary benefits for GI, metabolic, and some behavioral symptoms in ASD, but require further validation.
Future research needs standardized, longitudinal studies integrating multi-omics and neuroimaging for precision medicine in ASD.