|
The gut-brain axis: from evidence to policy—a framework for using probiotics in the treatment of neurological disorders
|
Mahmoud Salami *    , Fatemeh Aghighi Bidgoli |
| , salami-m@kaums.ac.ir |
|
|
Abstract: (24 Views) |
This policy document explores the critical bidirectional communication between the gut and the brain (the gut-brain axis) and the role of gut microbiota imbalances in neurological disorders such as depression, anxiety, MS, Parkinson's disease, autism, epilepsy, and Alzheimer's disease. Evidence suggests that microbiota-based interventions (e.g., probiotics and prebiotics) can, as adjunct therapies, alleviate symptoms of these diseases through mechanisms like reducing inflammation and modulating neurotransmitters. However, significant barriers exist, including heterogeneity in studies, unclear mechanisms, a lack of large-scale trials, and regulatory challenges in the supplement market. Policy recommendations include strengthening basic and clinical research, establishing stricter regulatory frameworks for quality control and treatment claims, integrating this approach into clinical guidelines and professional education, and ensuring transparent public communication. Ultimately, this promising field requires sustained investment and smart policymaking to translate encouraging evidence into safe and effective clinical applications.
|
|
| Keywords: Gut microbiota, Gut-brain axis, neurological disorders, Probiotic |
|
|
|
Type of Study: Policy Brief |
Subject:
medicine, paraclinic
Received: 2025/12/29 | Revised: 2026/02/8 | Accepted: 2026/02/8
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Send email to the article author |
|
|
|
| Add your comments about this article |
|
|
|
_-_Copy.png)
.png){kind=logo}
