Efavirenz-Altered Gut-Microbiota, Tph1, and Systemic 5-HT Levels: Could They Affect Depression Mechanisms in Mice?

The gut microbiota produces molecules that trigger responses at the local and distant levels. It affects the brain through several metabolic products, including serotonin (5-HT). Tryptophan hydroxylase type 1 (Tph1) is the rate-limiting enzyme during 5-HT biosynthesis in the gut. Efavirenz (EFV), an antiretroviral agent against HIV, is associated with depression disorders and Tryptophan hydroxylase type 2 (Tph2) deregulation in mice. The possible association between the depressive effects of EFV secondary to dysbiosis and the expression of Tph1 in the intestine is yet to be studied. Therefore, we aimed to elucidate the role of the gut microbiota in depression mechanisms. We reviewed the gut microbiota, their metabolites (short-chain fatty acids [SCFA]), Tph1 expression in the gut, and systemic 5-HT and tryptophan levels in CD1 mice after 36 days of oral EFV (10 mg/kg) treatment. The proportions of Bacteroidota and Bacillota_A_368345 decreased and increased, respectively, following EFV treatment. Additionally, the abundance of Lactobacillus spp. and Faecalbaculum decreased, whereas that of Dubosiella spp., Blautia_A_141780, and Anaerostipes increased. These bacteria contribute to SCFA production and may have counteracted the lack of protective effects provided by Lactobacillus. Tph1 expression was dysregulated in the gut, whereas serum 5-HT levels decreased following EFV treatment. Lactobacillus species promote 5-HT production in the gut, and the deregulation of Tph1 affects 5-HT synthesis. This disruption in the gut–brain axis decreased peripheral 5-HT levels. This affects the serotonergic system in the brain, which could contribute to depression.