The 200 million neurons in our brain

are in constant communication with

the billions of bacteria in our digestive

tract. When the gut microbiota is

altered, this communication can be

disrupted and play a significant role

in the onset of certain autism

spectrum disorders, depression or

anxiety, or even Alzheimer’s disease.

An explanation is needed.

The brain and gut communicate via the

vagus nerve which carries information

between the head and abdomen

WRONG SIGNAL

Several studies have noted the existence of dysbiosis

in many patients presenting with central nervous system

disorders such as neurodegenerative diseases autism

spectrum disorders ASDs anxiety and depression

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THE GUT-BRAIN AXIS:

SHOW ME THE WAY

These microbial populations act on the cells in

the gut lining. What role do they play? By producing

molecules such as short-chain fatty acids, they modulate

the information carried by the nervous system between

the gut and brain.

Just a few years ago, nobody believed the gut and brain

were connected. However, it has now been proven that

the brain and gut exchange information via four main

pathways: neural, endocrine, immune and metabolic.

The two “organs” communicate via the vagus nerve,

which carries information from the head to the

abdomen

(16)

.

Bacteria in the gut communicate with the

enteric/abdominal nervous system by producing

neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine

which communicate with the brain and have an

impact on our behavior. At the same time, the brain

has an effect on the gut by modulating secretions,

motility and bloodstream, all of which affect intestinal

permeability

(17)

.

FOUNDATION

AWARDS

4 national grants

1 international grant

DID YOU KNOW

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