International review of neurobiology
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Int. Rev. Neurobiol. · Jan 2016
ReviewGut-to-Brain Axis in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Central Role for the Microbiome.
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are neurodevelopmental disorders, which occur in early childhood and persist into adulthood. Although the etiology of these disorders is largely unknown, genetic and environmental factors are thought to interplay in the development of ASD. ⋯ In this review, we address the clinical and preclinical findings on the role of the intestinal microbiome in ASD and suggest possible underlying mechanisms. Furthermore, opportunities for (nutritional) interventions in ASD are provided.
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Int. Rev. Neurobiol. · Jan 2016
ReviewGut Microbiome and Behavior: Focus on Neuroimmune Interactions.
As neuroscientists, psychologists, and psychiatrists are starting to appreciate the importance of the gut microbiota to mental health, it is critical to determine the mechanisms of microbiota to brain communication and thereby provide a better understanding of the aspects that may be modifiable with proper intervention in individuals with mental illness. Microbiota-brain communication is emerging as an important factor in brain development and function. ⋯ This chapter provides a review of the literature related to the influence of microbiota-immune-brain communication to behavior. This research has a clear translational relevance for mental health, contributing to extant findings that indicate a role for the microbiome in brain development and behavior.