Unveiling the Gut-Brain Connection: Impacts on Memory and Learning

An Indo-German study highlights how gut microbiome disturbances, often from antibiotics or poor diet, can lead to inflammation and hinder memory and learning. Gut health impacts cognitive functions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balanced diet and cautious antibiotic use for brain health.

The link between disrupted gut microbiota and impaired cognitive function has been clearly demonstrated by a collaborative Indo-German research team, according to CUSAT.

Published in 'BMC Biology', their research reveals how gut microbiome disturbances, common from prolonged antibiotics or imbalanced diets, lead to systemic inflammation affecting memory-essential neural circuits. The study received support from DST and DAAD.

Researchers observed antibiotic-induced gut dysbiosis disrupts physiological processes, compromising the gut barrier and affecting the brain's immune environment, with overactive microglia causing unnecessary synaptic pruning. They highlight the critical role of gut diversity for cognitive health, suggesting balanced diets and probiotics as potential interventions.

(With inputs from agencies.)