Effect of the Microbiota Metabolite Butyric Acid on Behavior, Neuroinflammation, and Oxidative Stress Level in a Mouse Model of Dysbiosis

According to modern concepts, the composition and diversity of the intestinal microbiota plays a significant role in maintaining immunity, homeostasis, and overall physiological functions of the host organism. An imbalance of the gut-brain axis due to intestinal dysbiosis is associated with a number of neurodegenerative diseases, including memory impairment and anxiety/depression symptoms. In this study, we assessed the effect of butyric acid, a representative of short-chain fatty acids, on anxiety and cognitive functions in mice after injection of a course of broad-spectrum antibiotics. We determined the level of oxidative stress in brain tissue, neuroinflammation, and BBB permeability in mice treated with antibiotics and a butyric acid preparation. Administration of antibiotics to adolescent mice for two weeks led to changes in behavior, including increased horizontal motor activity, decreased exploratory activity, and non-spatial and spatial short-term memory. Moreover, we found a high level of oxidative stress, neuroinflammation in brain tissues and increased BBB permeability in mice treated with antibiotics. Oral administration of the drug prevented these observed changes and improved not only behavioral disorders, but also partially reduced the level of oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.