Neurochemical Signaling Molecules in Gut–Brain Axis: Microbial Metabolites and Therapeutic Implications
نویسندگان
1 Department of Pharmaceutics, KVSR Siddhartha College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh 520008, India
2 MBBS, Family Physician Padonia Pediatrics, Maryland, USA
3 Department of Pharmacology, Peri College of Pharmacy, Westside walkway, Mannivakkam Main Rd, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600048, India
4 Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Pt Rajendra Prasad Smarak College of Pharmacy, Kajri-Niranjanpur, Puranpur, Pilibhit, Uttar Pradesh 262122, India
5 Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Vels Institute of Science Technology & Advanced Studies, Chennai - 600 117, India
6 School of Pharmacy, ITM University Gwalior, Turari Campus, Jhansi Road, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India
7 Department of Pharmacology, Vels Institute of Science Technology & Advanced Studies, Chennai - 600 117, India
8 Department of Pharmacy, Teerthanker Mahaveer college of pharmacy, TMU, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh 244001, India
doi
10.48309/jcr.2026.532539.1479چکیده
The gut–brain axis is a bidirectional communication network linking the gastrointestinal tract and central nervous system and is significantly influenced by the gut microbiota. Emerging evidence indicates that microbial dysbiosis alters neurodevelopment, neurotransmission, and behavior, contributing to psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, such as depression, autism, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. Key mediators of this crosstalk are microbial metabolites and neuroactive compounds including γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), indole derivatives, and tryptophan metabolites. These bioactive molecules modulate brain function by affecting neuronal signaling, neurotransmitter balance, immune responses, and intestinal barrier integrity. This review emphasizes the chemical and functional roles of these compounds in mediating gut–brain communication. Understanding their structure–activity relationships offer novel insights into therapeutic approaches involving probiotics, prebiotics, dietary modulation, and microbial metabolite targeting. Rather than addressing all disorders, this review focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying gut-derived neurochemical signaling and its relevance to brain health, highlighting promising strategies for managing neuropsychiatric conditions through microbiota modulation.
