Summary
Bidirectional communication between gut microbes and the nervous system via metabolites, immune and vagal signals.
In depth
Signalling pathways include the vagus nerve, short-chain fatty acids, tryptophan metabolism and immune mediators. About 90 percent of serotonin is made in the gut. Germ-free mice show altered behaviour. Human causality remains under study.
Microbial metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids and neurotransmitter precursors may influence the brain. Human trials are needed to confirm causality.
Key idea: gut microbes and the brain communicate through multiple routes.
Frequently asked questions
What is Gut-Brain Axis?
Bidirectional communication between gut microbes and the nervous system via metabolites, immune and vagal signals.
Which area of biology covers Gut-Brain Axis, and how advanced is it?
Gut-Brain Axis is one of the 54 topics in Microbiology. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Microbiome, Microorganisms, Metagenomics.
Can you give an example of Gut-Brain Axis?
Probiotics are being tested for depression and anxiety.
What should I learn before Gut-Brain Axis?
Work through the Beginner topics in Microbiology first, such as Microorganisms, Bacteria, Archaea, then return to Gut-Brain Axis. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to Gut-Brain Axis?
The closest topics to Gut-Brain Axis are Microbiome, Microorganisms, Metagenomics, Microbial Consortia. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Gut-Brain Axis?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Gut-Brain Axis. To practise the whole of Microbiology, use the Microbiology quiz.
How is Gut-Brain Axis different from Microbiome?
Gut-Brain Axis: Bidirectional communication between gut microbes and the nervous system via metabolites, immune and vagal signals. Microbiome: The community of microorganisms living in and on a host, such as the human gut. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Gut-Brain Axis step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Microbiome and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Microbiology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.