Topic: Gut-Brain Synergy: Unveiling Microbiota's Influence

An increasing body of research underscores the role of the microbiota-gut-brain axis in regulating the functions of both the gastrointestinal and central nervous systems and how it influences health and disease. Research data indicates a strong connection between the microbiome and disorders of gut-brain interactions (DGBIs) and various gastroinestinal (GI) diseases as well as neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. The composition and function of the microbiota are profoundly influenced by external factors such as diet, air pollution, stress and pharmaco-therapy. Alteration of gut microbiota, frequently reffered as dysbiosis, can lead or be associated with the development of gastrointestinal as well as psychiatric and neurological disorders in the host organism.

Furthermore, studies suggest that the modulation of the gut microbiota has a beneficial impact on neural pathways, which could affect the progression of major neurological diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis. To move beyond mere correlation analyses, beside basic research studies, there is a growing need for prospective longitudinal research, etiological and mechanistic investigations, as well as larger-scale trials of potential therapeutic approaches in this field. Therefore, increasing attention and research into this area has the potential for significant implications on human health.

To advance this research field, the Guest Editors and Editorial Office aim to discuss the following topics but not limited to:
1. How interactions between diet and the gut microbiota can modify brain integrity and cognitive function;
2. The gut microbiota as a link between dietary interventions and prophylaxis/treatment of brain diseases;
3. Gut microbial metabolism and gut-brain axis homeostasis;
4. The emerging role of the gut microbiota in the modulation of neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration;
5. The gut microbiota as a source for novel neuroprotective agents;
6. The role of the gut microbiota in neuropsychiatric disorders;
7. The potential of the gut microbiome modulation in the prevention, development, treatment, and management of CNS diseases, especially when synergized with existing therapies;
8. The use of the gut microbiota as a novel source of biomarkers and prognosis predictors in CNS disease;
9. Therapeutic opportunities presented by the gut microbiota as adjunctive therapy for psychological and psychiatric disorders;
10. The gut microbiota-brain axis in precision medicine;
11. The role of gut microbiota is stress management.

30 Sep 2024