Intricate mechanism of anxiety disorder, recognizing the potential role of gut microbiota and therapeutic interventions

Metab Brain Dis. 2024 Dec 13;40(1):64. doi: 10.1007/s11011-024-01453-1.

Abstract

Anxiety is a widespread psychological disorder affecting both humans and animals. It is a typical stress reaction; however, its longer persistence can cause severe health disorders affecting the day-to-day life activities of individuals. An intriguing facet of the anxiety-related disorder can be addressed better by investigating the role of neurotransmitters in regulating emotions, provoking anxiety, analyzing the cross-talks between neurotransmitters, and, most importantly, identifying the biomarkers of the anxiety. Recent years have witnessed the potential role of the gut microbiota in human health and disorders, including anxiety. Animal models are commonly used to study anxiety disorder as they offer a simpler and more controlled environment than humans. Ultimately, developing new strategies for diagnosing and treating anxiety is of paramount interest to medical scientists. Altogether, this review article shall highlight the intricate mechanisms of anxiety while emphasizing the emerging role of gut microbiota in regulating metabolic pathways through various interaction networks in the host. In addition, the review will foster information about the therapeutic interventions of the anxiety and related disorder.

Keywords: Butyrate; Depression; Glucocorticoids; Metabolic interaction.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anxiety Disorders* / metabolism
  • Anxiety Disorders* / microbiology
  • Anxiety Disorders* / therapy
  • Brain-Gut Axis / physiology
  • Gastrointestinal Microbiome* / physiology
  • Humans