The Gut-brain Axis: How Microbiota Influence Mental Health and Neurological Function

Abstract

The gut-brain axis (GBA) represents a critical bidirectional communication network linking the gut microbiota with mental and neurological health, necessitating a comprehensive review to consolidate emerging evidence and elucidate its therapeutic potential. Growing research underscores the role of microbial metabolites, neurotransmitter regulation, and immune pathways in influencing conditions such as depression, anxiety, and neurodegenerative diseases, yet gaps remain in translating these findings into clinical applications. This review addresses the need to integrate multidisciplinary insights into the GBA, offering a foundation for future research and interventions targeting gut-brain interactions. The review highlights the pivotal role of gut microbiota in producing neuroactive compounds, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and serotonin, which modulate brain function and behavior. It examines dietary influences, including fiber-rich and fermented foods, in shaping microbial diversity and mental health outcomes. Additionally, the mechanisms of neural, endocrine, and immune pathways in gut-brain communication are explored, alongside clinical evidence linking dysbiosis to psychiatric and neurological disorders. Emerging therapeutic strategies, such as psychobiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation, and personalized nutrition, are discussed as promising interventions. The review also synthesizes findings from key studies on dietary patterns, microbial metabolites, and their impact on cognitive and emotional health. By consolidating this evidence, the review provides a holistic understanding of the GBA’s role in health and disease. Future research should prioritize longitudinal and interventional studies to establish causal relationships between gut microbiota and brain function. Standardized methodologies for microbiome analysis and larger, diverse cohorts are needed to enhance reproducibility and clinical relevance. Investigations into the efficacy of microbiome-targeted therapies, including combinations of diet, probiotics, and pharmacologic agents, will be critical for advancing treatment paradigms. Ultimately, unraveling the complexities of the GBA may pave the way for innovative, personalized approaches to mental and neurological healthcare.