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.