Growing up in a Bubble: Using Germ-Free Animals to Assess the Influence of the Gut Microbiota on Brain and Behavior

There is a growing recognition of the importance of the commensal intestinal microbiota in the development and later function of the central nervous system. Research using germ-free mice (mice raised without any exposure to microorganisms) has provided some of the most persuasive evidence for a role of these bacteria in gut-brain signalling. Key findings show that the microbiota is necessary for normal stress responsivity, anxiety-like behaviors, sociability, and cognition. Furthermore, the microbiota maintains central nervous system homeostasis by regulating immune function and blood brain barrier integrity. Studies have also found that the gut microbiota influences neurotransmitter, synaptic, and…

• BA
  Brain and Behavior Research Foundation

  Award: 20771
• P
  Pfizer
• MJ
  Mead Johnson Nutrition
• NA
  National Alliance for Research on Schizophrenia and Depression

  Award: 20771
• HR
  Health Research Board

  Award: HRA_POR/2012/32
• SF
  Science Foundation Ireland

  Awards: SFI/12/RC/, 20771, SFI/12/RC/2273, 12/RC/2273, 12/RC/
• AM
  APC Microbiome Institute

  Award: SFI/12/RC/2273
• FF
  FP7 Food, Agriculture and Fisheries, Biotechnology

  Award: 613979