International Journal of Molecular Medical Science, 2024, Vol.14, No.2, 106-122 http://medscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmms 106 Research Perspective Open Access Unraveling the Gut-Brain Axis: The Potential of Engineered Synthetic Microbial Communities in Modulating Neurotransmitter Production and Mental Health Jingqiang Wang Institute of Life Science, Jiyang College of Zhejiang A&F University, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China Corresponding email: jingqiang.wang@gmail.com International Journal of Molecular Medical Science, 2024, Vol.14, No.2 doi: 10.5376/ijmms.2024.14.0014 Received: 18 Mar., 2024 Accepted: 22 Apr., 2024 Published: 05 May, 2024 Copyright © 2024 Wang, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Wang J.Q., 2024, Unraveling the gut-brain axis: the potential of engineered synthetic microbial communities in modulating neurotransmitter production and mental health, International Journal of Molecular Medical Science, 14(2): 106-122 (doi: 10.5376/ijmms.2024.14.0014) Abstract This study delves into the intricate communication network between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system, known as the gut-brain axis, and its significant impact on mental health. The study focuses on the potential of engineered synthetic microbial consortia (SynComs) in regulating neurotransmitter production and promoting mental well-being. By examining recent advancements in synthetic biology and multi-omics technologies, it highlights the substantial improvements in SynComs' ability to precisely target neurochemical pathways. The integration potential of personalized SynComs in the treatment of mental health disorders is emphasized, offering a promising alternative to traditional therapies. Additionally, the study discusses the challenges related to technology, safety, ethics, and regulation, providing a comprehensive overview of the current state and future prospects of SynComs in clinical applications. The importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing SynCom research is underscored, calling for continued efforts to fully realize its therapeutic potential. This study demonstrates the transformative potential of SynComs in the field of mental health, providing a theoretical foundation for innovative and personalized therapeutic strategies. Keywords Gut-brain axis; Neurotransmitter modulation; Synthetic microbial communities; Mental health; Synthetic biology 1 Introduction The gut-brain axis, a complex bidirectional communication network between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system, has garnered significant interest for its role in regulating mental health. Emerging research has highlighted how gut microbiota can influence brain function through various pathways, including immune modulation, hormone secretion, and direct microbial metabolite production. Understanding this intricate connection is crucial for developing novel therapeutic strategies for mental health disorders (Huang and Wu, 2021). The gut-brain axis (GBA) involves multiple pathways, including neural, hormonal, and immune mechanisms, which facilitate the interaction between gut microbiota and brain function (Petra et al., 2015; Cryan et al., 2019; Socała et al., 2021). The gut microbiota, comprising trillions of microorganisms, plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and influencing various physiological processes, including neural development, neurotransmission, and behavior (Martin et al., 2018; Cryan et al., 2019; Socała et al., 2021). Emerging evidence suggests that alterations in the gut microbiota composition can significantly impact mental health, contributing to the pathogenesis and progression of neuropsychiatric and neurological disorders such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorders, and Parkinson's disease (Huang and Wu, 2021; Margolis et al., 2021; Socała et al., 2021). Synthetic microbial communities (SynComs) are engineered consortia of microorganisms designed to perform specific functions within a host environment. These communities offer a promising approach to modulate the gut microbiota and, consequently, the gut-brain axis. By precisely controlling the composition and metabolic activities of SynComs, researchers aim to influence neurotransmitter production and other biochemical pathways that affect brain function and mental health (Liu et al., 2015). SynComs can be tailored to produce specific metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids, neurotransmitters, and other signaling molecules, which can interact with the central nervous system through various routes, including the vagus nerve, immune system, and endocrine pathways (Petra
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ4ODYzNQ==