The gut–brain axis: Collective impact of psychosomatic conditions and gut microbiota on health and disease

The gut–brain axis represents a dynamic, bidirectional communication system linking the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal (GI) tract through neural, hormonal, and immune pathways. A growing body of research highlights the role of gut microbiota in modulating neuroinflammatory responses, neurotransmitter production, and vagal nerve signaling. However, while numerous reviews have addressed gut microbiota’s impact on health and disease, few have systematically compared findings across different study models or emphasized recent advances in therapeutic interventions. Hence, this review consolidates present research on the interplay between gut microbiota, psychological conditions (stress, anxiety, and depression), and GI disorders (irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease). This review explores the latest methodologies, including genomic approaches and metabolomics, to understand microbial signatures in health and disease. Furthermore, it examines therapeutic interventions, including probiotics, pre-biotics, dietary modifications, and fecal microbiota transplantation, and their efficacy across different studies. The gut–brain axis plays a crucial role in health and disease through complex interactions between gut microbiota, psychological conditions, and GI disorders. By consolidating recent research and advancements in therapeutic interventions, this review provides a comprehensive perspective on emerging methodologies and potential treatments. A deeper understanding of these mechanisms may pave the way for more effective, personalized therapeutic strategies.