- Oct 2015
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www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
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Keywords: gut microbiota, mental illness, disease, modulation, therapy, probiotics
Each keyword forms an important concept, which is explained in this chapter at some point. Initially the author explains the concept of probiotic organisms (bacteria that promote digestive health and improve immune system of a person) and gives some examples of these gut microorganisms (e.g. Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Lactococcus lactis, etc.). The author then moves on to explain role of these bacteria in communicating with brain and regulating various diseases like anxiety, depression(mental illness), metabolic and GI tract disorders. Finally the author assesses the potential of modifying these bacterial communities to treat these disorders. Thus, all keywords play an important role in introducing various important concepts of the chapter.
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The gut–brain axis in disease
I have always been interested in studying the pathways that link various biochemical processes to diseases. I believe that if we could understand these pathways, then it is possible to modify them to improve human health and reduce the occurrence/risk of or treat various diseases. Bidirectional communication between gut microbiome and brain has opened new doors for the betterment of human health. These microorganisms regulate many complex behaviors such as anxiety, learning, memory and appetite. Recent studies show that our diet can be modified to treat various disorders such as anxiety, depression, metabolic disorders like PKU and gastrointestinal tract disorders.
Goals of the paper: 1) To introduce the concept of bidirectional communication between brain and gut to the audience 2) To demonstrate the role of the bidirectional communication in regulating various disorders 3) To analyze the potential of modulation of gut microbiome to treat various disorders and promote human health
The above-mentioned goals were very clear from author's choice of topics and language used in the article. The author explains all concepts in a simple, layman's language, which can be understood by general public and the content can be easily related to general day-to-day concept of disease and its treatment.
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Modulation of microbiota and prospects for therapy
That will provide us with an exciting opportunity to treat some complex disorders. I found one TED talk, which relates gut microbiome with various disorders.
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Luna RA, Foster JA. Gut brain axis: diet microbiota interactions and implications for modulation of anxiety and depression. Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2014;32C:35–41
That would take anxiety and depression research to the next level and will really help patients with anxiety disorders such as autism.
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Husebye E, Hellstrom PM, Midtvedt T. Intestinal microflora stimulates myoelectric activity of rat small intestine by promoting cyclic initiation and aboral propagation of migrating myoelectric complex. Dig Dis Sci. 1994;39(5):946–956
Wow! Is it possible even in humans??
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Diamant M, Blaak EE, de Vos WM. Do nutrient-gut-microbiota interactions play a role in human obesity, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes? Obes Rev. 2011;12(4):272–281.
This would be very interesting article to read and it might give us useful insights regarding the effect of interactions between gut bacteria and nutrients on obesity and type 2 diabetes.
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