Neuroprotective Role of Lactobacillus in Regulating the Gut- Brain Axis: Mechanistic Understanding and Therapeutic Suggestions

The gut microbiota is an essential means of controlling host neurophysiology via the microbiota-gut-brain axis (GBA), a two-way network of communication comprising neural, endocrine, immune, and metabolic pathways. species are the most promising candidates of gut microbiota as they can regulate neurotransmission, immune signaling, and neuroendocrine functions. In this chapter, a general review of the biological properties of in regard to gut-brain modulation is presented, including taxonomy, colonization, and synthesis of neuroactive molecules; g-aminobutyric acid (GABA), serotonin precursors, and catecholamines. The mechanistic knowledge emphasizes the effect that has on the brain in terms of the production of short-chain fatty acids, metabolism of tryptophan, immune modulation, and modulation of oxidative stress. It has been shown in preclinical models to have strong effects on anxiety, depression-like behavior, cognitive impairment, and neurodegeneration with the help of vagal signaling, microglial modulation, and enhancements in neuroplasticity. Human and animal studies favor positive accounts on mood disorders, stress management, cognitive capabilities, and gut-brain hormonal indicators, but these are strain-specific and are restricted by small sample sizes, heterogeneous dosage plans, and brief interventions. Probiotic formulation strategies, such as single and multi-strain preparations, fermented food sources, and advanced encapsulation methods aimed at improving probiotic survival and specific neurological activity, are discussed in the chapter as well. Among the most important barriers to clinical translation, the specificity of the strain used, interindividual variability of the microbiome, inconsistency in dosage, and the lack of long-term clinical studies can be identified. In general, the existing body of evidence suggests that is a promising psychobiotic genus that can be used to considerable effect to enhance mental health and alleviate the effects of neurodegenerative mechanisms. Future paths involve the individualized treatment of probiotics, microbiology-based neurology, and producing live biotherapeutics based on pharmaceutical quality that can target individual neural pathways. The importance of strong, mechanistically enlightened clinical testing in order to effectively leverage the therapeutic potential of for neurological health is highlighted in this chapter.