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Psychobiotics could be used to combat depression and its symptoms. 

In a recent review published in the journal Nutrients, researchers discussed the potential of psychobiotics --beneficial bacteria -- to aid in the treatment of depression by targeting the gut-brain axis and addressing dysbiosis, a disruption in gut microbiome homeostasis.

Depression, a widespread global health concern, poses significant challenges, including diminished productivity, increased healthcare costs and heightened suicide risk.

The interplay between the gut and the brain, known as the gut-brain axis, plays a crucial role in mental health, with dysbiosis contributing to alterations in mood and behavior.

Depression is influenced by various molecular mechanisms, including neurotransmitter imbalances, reduced brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and abnormal stress responses.

"Depression is understood to be fueled by a complex interplay of various molecular mechanisms, primarily including a neurotransmitter reduction, abnormally stressed hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, a decline in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, increased pro-inflammatory intestinal responses, and interaction between the intestinal microbiota and the brain via the vagus nerve," the review noted. 

Chronic stress can disrupt intestinal homeostasis, leading to changes in gut microbial composition, which, in turn, impacts brain function and inflammation levels.

The review indicated how psychobiotics, through their effects on the gut barrier, immunological responses and neuroendocrine pathways, may offer support in managing depression, particularly in treatment-recalcitrant cases.

Key findings suggested that psychobiotics can modulate neurotransmitter levels, regulate inflammatory responses and enhance gut barrier function, thus potentially alleviating depressive symptoms.

Probiotic strains such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus have shown promise in reducing inflammation, boosting cognitive function and improving mood, News Medical reported.

Additionally, postbiotics and multi-strain probiotic formulations have demonstrated efficacy in alleviating depression and enhancing overall mental well-being.

The review demonstrated the importance of considering dietary interventions, particularly probiotics, in addressing mental health concerns like depression.

With depression posing a significant global burden, exploring novel therapeutic approaches, such as psychobiotics, offers hope for enhancing mental well-being and improving treatment outcomes, according to the authors.