Analysis of the Differences in Gut Microbiota Structure in Anxiety and Depression

Anxiety and depression, as highly prevalent mental disorders globally, are witnessing a year-on-year increase in incidence rates. According to data from the World Health Organization, the number of individuals suffering from anxiety disorders has surpassed 400 million, while those with depression exceed 380 million, with the disease burden becoming increasingly heavy. The pathogenesis of anxiety and depression has not yet been fully elucidated. In recent years, the emergence of the “microbiota-gut-brain” axis theory has opened up a new perspective for the study of anxiety and depression. The gut microbiota, as the largest microbial community in the human body, may be involved in the occurrence and development of various diseases, including anxiety and depression, when its homeostasis is disrupted. In-depth research and comparative analysis of the structural differences in the gut microbiota of individuals with anxiety and depression are of great significance for unraveling the pathogenesis of these disorders and developing precise prevention and intervention strategies.