![]() ![]() There are more microorganisms living in and on us than there are cells in our bodies. Our guts are naturally home to countless bacteria, fungi and viruses. “Our research could pave the way toward discovering much-needed therapeutics for anxiety and depression.” Microbiota and Depression “Our discovery illuminates how gut-resident Lactobacillus influences mood disorders, by tuning the immune system,” said Gaultier, of UVA’s Department of Neuroscience, its Center for Brain Immunology and Glia and the TransUniversity Microbiome Initiative. UVA’s new research represents a major step forward in that effort, providing scientists an innovative new approach to understand the role of individual microbes that could aid in developing of new treatments and cures for a variety of diseases, both mental and physical. The organisms are collectively known as the microbiota and scientists have increasingly sought to target them to battle disease and improve health. UVA researcher Alban Gaultier and collaborators say the discovery is notable because it pinpoints the role of Lactobacillus, separating it out from all the other microorganisms that naturally live in and on our bodies. The findings open the door to new therapies to treat anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions. University of Virginia School of Medicine researchers have discovered how Lactobacillus, a bacterium found in fermented foods and yogurt, helps the body manage stress and may help prevent depression and anxiety.
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