Cognitive-behavioural correlates of dysbiosis: A review

Abstract

© 2020 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland. Evidence suggests an association between an altered gut microbiota (dysbiosis), cognitive performance and behaviour. This paper provides an overview of the current literature regarding the cognitive-behavioural correlates of dysbiosis, with special attention on the clinical and biochemical mechanisms underlying the association between dysbiosis, cognition (mild cognitive impairment and dementia) and behaviour (depression, schizophrenia, addiction). After providing an overview of the evidence, the review discusses the molecular aspects that could account for the cognitive-behavioural correlates of dysbiosis. Shedding light on this topic could provide insights regarding the pathogenesis of these burdening neuropsychiatric disorders and even suggest future therapeutic strategies.