International Journal of Molecular Medical Science, 2024, Vol.14, No.2, 106-122 http://medscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmms 111 conditions by enhancing cognitive control processes such as working memory, inhibition, and shifting, which are linked to better emotion regulation and reduced internalizing/externalizing symptoms (Tajik-Parvinchi et al., 2021). In neurodegenerative disorders like schizophrenia, targeting neural synchrony deficits has been shown to improve cognitive function. For example, normalizing aberrant neural synchrony in a schizophrenia-related model improved cognitive control and reduced hyperlocomotion, indicating that SynComs could be engineered to achieve similar outcomes (Lee et al., 2014). Altered gut microbiota has been observed in patients with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and major depressive disorder (MDD), with significant differences in microbial richness and diversity compared to healthy controls. This dysbiosis can affect neurodevelopment and contribute to neurodegenerative processes (Jiang et al., 2018).By introducing SynComs designed to restore healthy microbial balance, it may be possible to mitigate the progression of these disorders. For instance, the use of probiotics such as Lactobacillus plantarum has been shown to relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression, potentially through the modulation of gut microbiota and neuroactive metabolites (Zhu et al., 2023). 5.3 Potential for SynComs to enhance cognitive function and mood SynComs hold significant potential for enhancing cognitive function and mood by influencing the gut-brain axis. The gut microbiome's role in cognitive processes is well-documented, with specific microbial strains being linked to improved cognitive performance and mood regulation. For example, probiotic supplementation has been linked to increased levels of beneficial gut bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Fecalibacterium, which are associated with improved mood and cognitive performance. Moreover, the application of SynComs could complement existing cognitive-behavioral therapies by providing a biological basis for mood enhancement and cognitive improvement. The studies have shown that specific gut bacteria can influence the synthesis and metabolism of neurotransmitters like gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), serotonin, and dopamine. By leveraging SynComs to enhance the presence of these beneficial microbes, it may be possible to develop targeted therapies for cognitive enhancement and mood regulation (Chung et al., 2019).This is particularly relevant in the context of telepsychology interventions, which have been effective in treating anxiety and depression through various delivery methods. By integrating SynComs with these interventions, it may be possible to achieve more robust and sustained improvements in mental health. The potential applications of SynComs in mental health are vast, ranging from managing anxiety and depression to addressing neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders and enhancing cognitive function and mood. The integration of SynComs with existing therapeutic approaches could pave the way for more effective and personalized treatments for mental health conditions. 6 Mechanistic Insights and Biological Pathways 6.1 Molecular mechanisms through which SynComs modulate neurotransmitter levels The gut-brain axis (GBA) is a complex communication network that involves various molecular mechanisms through which synthetic microbial communities (SynComs) can modulate neurotransmitter levels. One of the primary pathways involves the metabolism of tryptophan, an essential amino acid that serves as a precursor to serotonin, a key neurotransmitter. Gut microbiota can influence tryptophan metabolism, thereby affecting serotonin synthesis and other neuroactive metabolites such as kynurenine and indole (O'Mahony et al., 2015; Gao et al., 2019; Gheorghe et al., 2019). Additionally, gut bacteria are capable of producing and consuming a range of neurotransmitters, including dopamine, norepinephrine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which can directly impact host physiology (Strandwitz, 2018). Another significant mechanism is the modulation of glutamatergic signaling. Glutamate, a crucial neurotransmitter, is involved in various brain functions, including stress response, mood, and behavior. Alterations in glutamatergic transmission due to microbial activity can contribute to the pathogenesis of both gut and brain disorders (Margolis et al., 2021). Furthermore, the gut microbiota can produce short-chain fatty acids
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