The Gut Microbiome as a Component of the Gut–Brain Axis in Cognitive Health

Abstract

Introduction:

The human microbiome, the microorganisms living in and on the body, plays a vital role in brain physiology and pathophysiology. The gut microbiome (GMB) has been identified as a link in the gut–brain axis moderating cognitive development and health.

Objectives:

The objectives of this scoping review are to discuss mechanisms of the microbiome–gut–brain axis in cognition, review the existing literature on the GMB and cognition, and discuss implications for nursing research.

Methods:

We searched Pubmed using the terms “gut microbiome,” “brain,” and “cognition” and the terms “gut brain axis,” “microbiome,” and “cognition”; removed duplicates, studies not published in English, and unrelated publications; and added additional articles identified through references. We retained the 85 most relevant publications for this review.

Results:

Common themes in the current literature include GMB components; interactions on cognitive development; effects of GMB–gut–brain interactions on cognition, mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease; effects of GMB interactions with physiologic stress on cognition in critical care; and GMB modification for improved cognition. Review of the literature on each of these topics reveals multiple theoretical mechanisms of action for GMB–gut–brain interaction that modify cognitive development and function across the lifespan.

Discussion:

GMB components and dysbiosis have been implicated in many cognitive states, and specific microbiota constituents contribute to cognitive development, stability, and impairment. The study of these interactions is relevant to nursing research as it addresses the holistic human experience and microbiome constituents are modifiable, facilitating translation into the clinical setting.