Learn Glossary physiology

Gut-Brain Axis

Bidirectional communication network linking the central nervous system with the enteric nervous system and gut microbiota.

Mediated by the vagus nerve, neurotransmitters, gut hormones (ghrelin, GLP-1, PYY), immune signaling, and microbial metabolites including SCFAs. Implicated in appetite regulation, mood, IBS, anxiety, depression, and neurodegenerative disease. Increasingly a target of nutritional and pharmacologic interventions.

How one textbook covers it

  • Krause and Mahan's Food and the Nutrition Care Process, 16th ed.Chapter 1

    Mediated by the vagus nerve, neurotransmitters, gut hormones (ghrelin, GLP-1, PYY), immune signaling, and microbial metabolites including SCFAs. Implicated in appetite regulation, mood, IBS, anxiety, depression, and neurodegenerative disease. Increasingly a target of nutritional and pharmacologic interventions.

Related terms

Enteric Nervous System, Gut Microbiota, Vagus Nerve