August 17th, 2024

Stressed mouse brain sends gut messages that reduce beneficial bacteria levels

A study in Cell shows stress in mice reduces beneficial gut bacteria by signaling from the brain to Brunner's glands, affecting gut health and increasing infection risk, highlighting brain-gut communication.

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Stressed mouse brain sends gut messages that reduce beneficial bacteria levels

A recent study published in the journal Cell reveals that stress in mice triggers the brain to send signals to the gut, specifically affecting Brunner's glands, which are responsible for producing mucus and hosting nerve cells. When stressed, the brain's signals lead to a reduction in beneficial gut bacteria that help prevent inflammation and regulate immune responses. The research indicates that the removal of these glands results in increased susceptibility to bacterial infections and inflammation, as well as a leaky gut that allows harmful substances to enter the bloodstream. The study also found that the nerve cells in the Brunner's glands are directly connected to the vagus nerve, which communicates with the amygdala, a brain region involved in stress processing. When healthy mice were subjected to stress, they exhibited similar negative effects as those observed when the glands were removed. This research highlights the intricate communication between the brain and gut and its implications for understanding stress-related gastrointestinal issues.

- Stress in mice affects gut health by reducing beneficial bacteria.

- Brunner's glands play a crucial role in gut health and immune response.

- Removal of these glands leads to inflammation and increased infection risk.

- The study emphasizes the connection between the brain and gut via the vagus nerve.

- Stress can mimic the effects of gland removal on gut health.

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Link Icon 5 comments
By @card_zero - 5 months
Why though? Am under stress! Quickly, contract inflammatory bowel disease! How will that help?
By @spondylosaurus - 5 months
This isn't mentioned in TFA, but a relevant tip for anyone interested: there are two "good bacteria" probiotics I know of that have been studied in people with IBS and IBD: VSL-3 and Visibiome.

However, the formula currently sold as Visibiome is the same formula that used to be sold as VSL-3, whereas VSL-3 was forced to change their formula after a legal dispute. So most of the studies, because most of them predate this name/formula split, talk about VSL-3 but are referring to the active ingredient in Visibiome. Some people report success with one or the other, but I definitely prefer Visibiome overall.

By @Findecanor - 5 months
That does make me think if perhaps the same mechanism occurs in humans.

I have had bowel cancer twice. Both times, it has occurred during particularly stressful times in my life.

By @keernan - 5 months
INA Scientist but it seems to me that the fight or flight response is so primitive that it might be more harmful than helpful to the modern human.

Aggression too.

By @morninglight - 5 months
Hans Selye for the win!