The vagus nerve modulates BDNF expression and neurogenesis in the hippocampus

Accumulating evidence suggests that certain gut microbiota have antidepressant-like behavioural effects and that the microbiota can regulate neurogenesis and the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus. The precise mechanisms underlying these effects are not yet clear. However, the vagus nerve is one of the primary bidirectional routes of communication between the gut and the brain and thus may represent a candidate mechanism. Yet, relatively little is known about the direct influence of vagus nerve activity on hippocampal function and plasticity.

Source: European Neuropsychopharmacology - February 6, 2018 Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Olivia F. O ’Leary, Ebere S. Ogbonnaya, Daniela Felice, Brunno R. Levone, Lorraine C. Conroy, Patrick Fitzgerald, Javier A. Bravo, Paul Forsythe, John Bienenstock, Timothy G. Dinan, John F. Cryan Source Type: research