Microbiota intestinal y eje intestino-cerebro: una revisión de su interacción con el sistema nervioso central

Vicente Martinez Cardenas; Vivian R. Mena Miranda

doi:10.12873/

Authors

Vicente Martinez Cardenas Children’s Medical Center. Lake city. Florida. USA. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6273-2501
Vivian R. Mena Miranda Hospital pediátrico Centro. La Habana, Cuba.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.12873/

Keywords:

Intestinal microbiota; Gut–brain axis; Central nervous system; Dysbiosis; Functional gastrointestinal disorders; Neurological disorders

Abstract

Introduction: The gut–brain axis is a bidirectional communication network between the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract. The intestinal microbiota plays a central role in this interaction, modulating neurological, endocrine, immune, and metabolic functions. Dysbiosis has been linked to functional gastrointestinal disorders and central nervous system alterations, including anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases. Objective: To review the available scientific evidence on the interaction between intestinal microbiota and the gut–brain axis, emphasizing the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms and clinical implications. Methods: A narrative review of the literature published in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science from 2000 to 2024 was conducted. Relevant original articles, systematic reviews, and experimental studies addressing intestinal microbiota, gut–brain axis, and associated neurological disorders were included. Results: Evidence shows that microbiota influences the gut–brain axis through multiple pathways: metabolite production (short-chain fatty acids, neurotransmitters), modulation of intestinal and blood–brain barriers, immune regulation, and interaction with the enteric nervous system and vagus nerve. Dysbiosis is associated with irritable bowel syndrome, autism spectrum disorders, depression, anxiety, and neurodegenerative conditions, highlighting its key role in the pathophysiology of these disorders. Conclusions: Understanding the role of microbiota in the gut–brain axis opens new diagnostic and therapeutic perspectives, including probiotics, prebiotics, psychobiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation, and dietary interventions as promising strategies for managing gastrointestinal and neurological disorders.

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