The gut-brain axis refers to the network of connections that involve multiple biologic systems, allowing bidirectional communication between the gut and the brain. This communication is mainly mediated by gut microbiota, thanks to its ability to modulate several processes like the production of neurotransmitters.
In recent years, the primary role of the gut microbiota in this interaction has become increasingly evident. Microbial metabolism byproducts are able to reach the brain through the central, enteric, and autonomic nervous system as well as the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, affecting not only brain physiology but also its adaptation to psychological conditions like anxiety and stress.
Our Team started a deep research on this connection and a two-step in vitro screening of five different probiotic strains was carried out to select the best performers in the modulation of stress markers. The results obtained from this exploratory study highlighted the potential and valuable impact of probiotics intake on different aspects of mood and cognitive functions in a specific cohort of subjects facing a stressful period.