Neuromicrobiology Comes of Age: The Multifaceted Interactions between the Microbiome and the Nervous System

Abstract

The past decade has seen an explosion in our knowledge about the interactions between gut microbiota, the central nervous system, and the immune system. The gut–brain axis has recently gained much attention due to its role in regulating host physiology. This review explores recent findings concerning potential pathways linking the gut–brain axis to the initiation, pathophysiology, and development of neurological disorders. Our objective of this work is to uncover causative factors and pinpoint particular pathways and therapeutic targets that may facilitate the translation of experimental animal research into practical applications for human patients. We highlight three distinct yet interrelated mechanisms: (1) disruptions of both the intestinal and blood–brain barriers, (2) persistent neuroinflammation, and (3) the role of the vagus nerve.