THE MICROBIOME-GUT-BRAIN AXIS, BRAIN FUNCTION AND BEHAVIOR: MOVING TOWARDS MECHANISMS

Abstract

The last decade or more has revealed a broad scope of influence of the gut microbiome on brain function and behaviour. The mechanisms underpinning these observations remains poorly defined but is likely to be associated with the impact of microbial metabolites on host physiology. In this proposal, we focus in particular on the impact of these metabolites on barrier function and on the neuronal circuits mediating complex behaviour. Addressing this challenge requires the application of a combination of in silico, in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo approaches within the multidisciplinary framework which defines the mission of APC Microbiome Ireland. Our systematic and comprehensive approach will be critical to building up the basic scientific understanding necessary to successfully exploit these signalling mechanisms once they are fully mapped out with high granular detail. The proposal is thus designed to deliver advances in our mechanistic understanding that would pave the way for the development of gut microbiota directed countermeasures in stress-related disorders.

Document Details

Document Type
DoD Grant Award
Publication Date
Aug 11, 2021
Source ID
FA86552017047

Entities

People

  • John F. Cryan

Organizations

  • Air Force Office of Scientific Research
  • United States Air Force
  • University College Cork

Tags

Fields of Study

  • Biology
  • Environmental science

Readers

  • Gulf War Illness and Chronic Multisymptom Illness in Veterans.
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Biotechnology