Microbiome Research and Development: An Open Letter From Sarkis Mazmanian
Posted 6th September 2017 by Jane Williams
Dear Colleagues,
The concept of the gut-brain axis (GBA) has been around for some time. Yet, the idea that the gut microbiota could regulate the GBA is relatively recent.
Prior research has found differences between the gut microbiome composition of healthy individuals and those with neurological diseases. In addition, those with neurological diseases often suffer gastrointestinal symptoms.
Remarkably, 70% of all neurons in the peripheral nervous system are in the intestines, and the gut’s nervous system connects to the central nervous system. Understanding the interaction between the gut microbiota may lead to novel therapeutics for neurological diseases: instead of getting a drug to the brain of a patient, the gut can be targeted more easily.
I look forward to covering this in greater depth at the 5th Microbiome R&D and Business Collaboration Forum: USA and I hope to see you there.
Best wishes,
Sarkis Mazmanian
Louis & Nelly Soux Professor of Microbiology, California Institute of Technology
The Microbiome R&D and Business Collaboration Forum gives you access to all presentations, panel discussions and exhibitions at the Probiotics Congress. Register now.
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