Health
Brain signals can change the gut microbiome in as little as 2 hours
We have known for years that the gut microbiome can alter brain function, but now research in mice is suggesting that the opposite is also true – that the brain modifies gut bacteria
By Grace Wade
1 May 2025
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The intestinal lining of a mouse, with several bacteria (green) and one red blood cell (red)IKELOS GmbH/Dr. Christopher B. Jackson/Science Photo Library
The brain appears to directly influence the gut microbiome, as brain signals altered the composition of gut microbes in mice in as little as 2 hours. The finding strengthens the notion that communication along the gut-brain axis goes both ways.
Read moreAre fermented foods like kimchi really that good for your gut?
It is clear from previous studies that gut microbes can influence brain function and mood, but whether the opposite was true – that…
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