Title:Gastrointestinal Issues in Depression, Anxiety, and Neurodegenerative
Diseases: A Systematic Review on Pathways and Clinical Targets
Implications
Volume: 23
Issue: 11
Author(s): Ian Richard Lucena Andriolo, Bruna Longo, Dayse Machado de Melo, Márcia Maria de Souza, Rui Daniel Prediger and Luisa Mota da Silva*
Affiliation:
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
Keywords:
Gut-brain, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, mood disorders, microbiota, fecal transplantation, probiotics.
Abstract:
Introduction: Multiple illnesses commonly involve both the Central Nervous System
(CNS) and the Gastrointestinal Tract (GI) simultaneously. Consistent evidence suggests that neurological
disorders impair GI tract function and worsen the symptomatology and pathophysiology of
digestive disorders. On the other hand, it has been proposed that early functional changes in the GI
tract contribute to the genesis of several CNS illnesses. Additionally, the role played by the gut in
these diseases can be seen as a paradigm for how the gut and the brain interact.
Methods: We mentioned significant GI symptoms and discussed how the GI tract affects central
nervous system illnesses, including depression, anxiety, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease
in this study. We also explored potential pathophysiological underpinnings and novel targets
for the creation of future therapies targeted at gut-brain connections.
Results & Discussion: In this situation, modulating the gut microbiota through the administration of
fecal microbiota transplants or probiotics may represent a new therapeutic option for this population,
not only to treat GI problems but also behavioral problems, given the role that dysbiosis and
leaky gut play in many neurological disorders.
Conclusion: Accurate diagnosis and treatment of co-existing illnesses also require coordination between
psychiatrists, neurologists, gastroenterologists, and other specialties, as well as a thorough
history and thorough physical examination.
