The entrancing relation between diet and gut microbiota, a possible key target to exploit treatment options for depression and anxiety: insights from animal models, human studies and in vitro research – a review

The human gut microbiome has received considerable attention since it has been demonstrated that it changes with obesity, diabetes, liver illnesses, cancer and neurological diseases and has been pointed out to be of key importance for the treatment of obesity-related and neurological diseases. Focusing on the neurodegenerative diseases, gut resident microbiota seems to interfere in normal brain functioning. Recent advancements in research shed light on the detailed physiology of the microbiome, its active role in disease and health, its relationship with stress and how modifications in the gut microbiota tend to influence behavioral changes. The dynamic nature of the microbiome stimulates the CNS signaling mechanism, which contributes to its active role in healthy homeostasis. This review aimed to highlight the role of microorganisms in the maintenance of normal homeostasis, their influence on mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, their potential implications in the management and treatment of depressive disorders.