Psychology: 3D Gut Microbiota

What is the gut-brain axis (GBA)?

A bidirectional connection between the central nervous system (CNS) and the enteric nervous system (ENS), allowing communication between the gut and the brain.

What is the difference between gut microbiota and gut microbiome?

Gut microbiota: The microorganisms living in the gut that help maintain health.

Gut microbiome: The genes of those microorganisms.

What is the enteric nervous system (ENS)?

A division of the autonomic nervous system that independently controls digestion, while also communicating with the brain via the vagus nerve.

What is the vagus nerve, and what does it do?

The longest cranial nerve connecting the CNS to autonomic organs.

Originates in the brainstem and extends to the colon.

Controls mood, immune response, digestion, and heart rate.

What percentage of vagus nerve fibers carry information from the gut to the brain?

80-90% (carries signals related to pain, discomfort, and hunger).

What percentage of vagus nerve fibers carry information from the brain to the gut?

10-20% (controls salivation and the release of gastric acids).

What are gut microbiota, and what do they do?

Microbes that live in the gut.

Break down food for energy and nutrients.

Impact neurotransmitter concentrations in the brain.

Send fast signals to the brain via the vagus nerve.

Which neurotransmitters are produced by gut bacteria?

✅ Dopamine

✅ GABA

✅ 80% of the body's serotonin

How does the gut-brain axis influence psychological processes and behaviors?

Research suggests changes in gut microbiota can affect brain activity, nervous system function, hormones, body weight, and behavior.

How does stress influence the gut microbiota?

Stress can alter gut microbiota, leading to imbalances.

Mothers with high stress tend to have infants with more harmful bacteria in their gut.

What gut-related diseases correlate with anxiety, depression, and cognitive issues?

Conditions like IBS, Crohn's disease, and other digestive disorders show links to mental health issues.