Role of Gut Microbiota in The Development of Psychiatric Disorders (A Review)

Abstract

Introduction: The human gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in maintaining not only physical but also mental health. Emerging evidence highlights its influence on brain development and function through the gut-brain axis. Disruption of this communication system has been linked to various psychiatric disorders.
Objective: This review aims to explore the relationship between gut microbiota and the development of psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and schizophrenia. It also evaluates the therapeutic potential of microbiota-targeted interventions.
Methodology: A comprehensive review of current literature was conducted using scientific databases including PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Studies involving both animal models and human subjects from the last 10 years were analyzed to understand the role of gut microbiota in psychiatric conditions.
Results: Different psychiatric disorders are associated with specific gut microbial profiles. Depression correlates with reduced Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus; anxiety with altered microbiota in germ-free mice; ASD with increased Actinobacteria and Erysipelotrichi; and schizophrenia with Collinsella and Corynebacterium. Modulating gut microbiota through probiotics, prebiotics, or fecal microbiota transplantation has shown promising outcomes in reducing psychiatric symptoms. However, more human-based studies, particularly on anxiety, are needed.
Conclusion: The gut-brain axis plays a vital role in psychiatric health. Understanding gut microbiota’s influence on mental disorders opens avenues for novel therapeutic interventions. Future research should focus on personalized microbiota-based treatments to manage psychiatric conditions effectively.