The molecular mechanisms underlying the relationship between the host gut and distinct microorganisms remain largely unknown. A new study published in Nature Microbiology by Fung et al., presents findings supporting the role of gut serotonin in mediating host-microbe communication within the gut. Previous studies have shown that gut bacteria promote serotonin production by enterochromaffin cells via microbial metabolites such as SCFAs. Furthermore, colonization of specific spore-forming bacteria in the gut of germ-free (GF) mice alters gut motility and homeostasis presumably through increased serotonin bioavailability.
Thus these studies support a direct role of bacterial metabolism on mucosal serotonin levels and subsequent actions on host physiological responses. Fung et al. found that serotonin exposure or even fluoxetine Ts produced significant changes in gene expression and bacterial colonization.
A study in human twins found a correlation between SSRI exposure and decreased fecal Turicibacter and that a decrease in Tf was demonstrated in irritable bowel syndrome.
Year: 2021
Nationality: USA
Download the document