Mapping the Impact of Gut Microbiota on Brain and Behavior Through the Lens of GABA
Trial Parameters
Brief Summary
Gut microbiota produce different metabolites within the human body, which include neurotransmitters. Animal studies have demonstrated a critical role for the gut microbiota in various aspects of brain and behavioural function, and a smaller number of studies in humans have shown differences of gut microbiota composition in psychiatric conditions. However, almost nothing is known about the impact of neurotransmitters produced by the gut microbiota on human brain and behaviour. The way in which differences in brain, behaviour and personality traits are associated with the gut microbiota, and how they are influenced by a probiotic will be explored, with a special focus on GABA (Gamma Amino Butyric Acid). Abnormalities of microbiota composition have been identified in metabolic disorders, such as inflammatory bowel disease and obesity, and psychiatric conditions, such as depression and anxiety. The aim of this intervention trial will be to answer the following fundamental questions: 1. Does the population of gut bacteria capable of producing GABA modulate brain-based measures of GABA? 2. Does the population of gut bacteria capable of producing GABA influence performance in behavioural tasks known to depend on GABA-ergic function? The impact of a GABA producing probiotic on the measures of GABA in the brain and serum, relevant metabolites in blood, faecal and urine samples and performance in GABA dependent behavioural tasks will be investigated in this trial.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Male * Right-handed * Caucasian/White * Between 18 and 50 years of age * Grew up in the UK or other European country * Body Mass Index 18.5 to 30. Exclusion Criteria: * Use of antibiotics within the last 3 months * Use of protonic pump inhibitors (PPIs) within the last 3 months * Current or history of regular smoking within the last 6 months * Regular consumption of \>14 units of alcohol per week * Current use of psychotropic drugs for medicinal or recreational purposes * Current use of probiotic/prebiotic supplements * Current diagnosis of neurological, developmental or psychiatric condition * Current diagnosis of gut microbiota related conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease or irritable bowel syndrome