The gut-brain microbiota axis refers to the two-way communication network between the central nervous system, including the brain, and the enteric nervous system, which is the nervous system of the gastointestinal tract. This communication also involves other complex systems, such as the immune and endocrine systems. Scientific discoveries in recent decades have brought to light how alteration of the intestinal microbiota, that is, the very large population of microorganisms of a predominantly bacterial nature that symbiotically populate the intestinal tract of mammals and others (dysbiosis), is associated with numerous pathologies, including those affecting the nervous system. In this regard, numerous studies have demonstrated the involvement of the intestinal microbiotain the pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder, epilepsy, and again in neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
The exact mechanisms by which the gut microbiota influences brain activity and contributes to disease are not entirely clear, but there is well-established knowledge regarding the production and function of neuroactive microbiota compounds, their role on immune system modulation, and their influence on blood-brain barrier permeability. The potential for modulation of the gut microbiota to prevent or treat diseases of the brain or nervous system is, however, an area of ever-expanding research.
The Symposium organized in collaboration with the Neapolitan Brain Group – NGB, chaired by Prof. Ennio Del Giudice, a child neuropsychiatrist, is an opportunity to share knowledge and forge new collaborations between basic and clinical scientists on this interesting topic.
The event is free to join.
