The gut-brain axis in irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease

Research increasingly demonstrates the bidirectional communication between gut microbiota and the brain, enhancing the role of gut microbiota modulation in the treatment of central nervous system (CNS) disorders. The first five years of life are extremely important as it affects the development of gut microbiota, immune system and, consequently, the onset of psychometric alterations, particularly in genetically predisposed individuals. In this review, we focus on the link between specific microbial genera, gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, anxiety and depression and on the effects of different therapeutic strategies for mood disorders on gut microbiota. (C) 2020 Editrice Gastroenterologica Italiana S.r.l. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Research highlights the significant bidirectional communication between gut microbiota and the brain in treating central nervous system (CNS) disorders, with a focus on the impact of the first five years of life on the development of gut microbiota, immune system, and psychological alterations. The review specifically explores the link between specific microbial genera, gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, anxiety, and depression, as well as the effects of various therapeutic strategies for mood disorders on gut microbiota.