Communication between gastrointestinal bacteria and the nervous system

In the past few years, intestinal microbiota has emerged as a novel target for the treatment of gut-brain axis alterations. These include functional gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can be comorbid with stress-related psychiatric conditions. Thus, modulation of the microbiota (e.g. with the use of probiotics) could be proposed as a novel strategy not only for the treatment of IBS but also as an adjuvant for psychiatric treatment of anxiety and depression.

Graphical abstract.Download high-res image (210KB)Download full-size imageHighlights► Gut microbiota is a new target for the treatment of intestinal disorders. ► Modulation of microbiota has an impact on animal behaviour. ► Probiotics have important effects on gut and mental health. ► Intestinal microbiota could be a new target for mental illness. ► Probiotics could be novel adjuvant to psychiatric therapy.