A Role for the Lymphatic System in the Interactions Between Gut Microbiome and Brain
As we age, the gut microbiome undergoes changes that can lead to increased inflammation and decreased production of beneficial metabolites. This shift in microbial balance has been linked to various neurodegenerative conditions, highlighting the importance of the gut-brain connection. Research has uncovered key mechanisms by which the gut microbiome influences the brain, such as through the production of butyrate and systemic inflammatory signaling. Further exploration into the aging process may reveal additional ways in which the gut microbiome impacts overall health.
The microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA) plays a crucial role in facilitating communication between the gut microbiome, the central nervous system (CNS), and the gastrointestinal tract. Understanding the barriers within the MGBA is essential, as disruptions in barrier integrity can contribute to gastrointestinal and neurological diseases. Recent research has highlighted the dynamic nature of these barriers, emphasizing their role in regulating communication between the gut microbiome and the brain. Additionally, the lymphatic vasculature in the GI tract and CNS has emerged as a key player in maintaining whole-body homeostasis by linking the lymphatic system with the microbiota.
By exploring the structure and function of barriers in the MGBA and the impact of gut microbiota alterations on barrier function, researchers are gaining valuable insights into the complex interplay between the gut microbiome and the brain. The role of the lymphatic system in this relationship is becoming increasingly clear, highlighting the importance of considering the lymphatic network as a pathway for microbiota-induced effects on CNS health. Diseases associated with compromised blood vessel endothelial barrier function underscore the significance of understanding the lymphatic system’s role in maintaining physiological balance throughout the body.
Link: https://doi.org/10.1080/19490976.2024.2387800
