Moody microbes or fecal phrenology: what do we know about the microbiota-gut-brain axis
During the 4th World Congress on Microbiota, Dr. Paul Forsythe from the McMaster University of Canada will be speaking about his researches about the moody microbes or fecal phrenology.
According to Dr Forsythe, the microbiota-gut-brain axis is a term that covers a broad set of functions and interactions between the gut microbiota, the endocrine, immune and nervous systems, and the brain.
At first sight it appears gut microbes are largely responsible for the development, maturation and adult function of the enteric nervous system as well as the blood brain barrier, microglia and many aspects of the central nervous system structure and function. Communication between gut and brain depends on both humoral and nervous connections. Since such communication is bi-directional and occur through complex pathways, it is perhaps not surprising that while striking observations have been reported, they have often either not yet been reproduced or their replication by others has not been successful. Given the state of the art in this exploding field and the hopes, as well as the skepticism, which have been engendered by its popular appeal, this presentation will explore recent examples of evidence in rodents and data derived from studies in humans, which offer insights as to pathways involved.
For more information about Targeting Microbiota World Congress and Dr Forsythe's presentation: www.microbiota-site.com
Marvin Edeas, Chairman of ISM
