Work

It takes guts to grow a brain

Year: 2011

Type: review

Abstract: A new study entitled "Normal gut microbiota modulates brain development and behavior", published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, requires that we reconsider the notion that the brain is an immune-privileged site. The authors demonstrate that intestinal microbiota must be present within a set time-frame for normal synaptogenesis to occur in the brain. In the absence of intestinal microbiota, histopathological and behavioral abnormalities arise. These observations necessitate a new look at the many interconnections of the immune system and the brain, suggesting new frontiers for research and new therapeutic strategies for neurodevelopmental diseases.

Source: BioEssays

DOI: 10.1002/bies.201100042

Authors: Betty Diamond, Patricio T. Huerta, Kevin Tracey, Bruce T. Volpe

Institutions: Northwell Health, Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Cornell University, Burke Medical Research Institute

Language: English

Topic: Gut microbiota and health

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institute of General Medical Sciences, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Center for Research Resources