At the Microorganisms Laboratory of the General Genetic Institute, led by Ni Vavilov, researchers explored the potential of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii as a candidate to alleviate depressive symptoms. The project was overseen by Senior Researcher Olga Averina, who learned about these developments through a report published by Gazeta.ru. The work sits at the intersection of microbiology and mental health, aiming to translate basic findings into practical options for mood management. This early exploration highlights the growing interest in the gut brain connection as a possible route to new therapies.
The brain and the gut are intimately connected. When the gut encounters stress or dysfunction, the entire organism can feel the impact. The intestinal microbiota acts as a central player along the gut brain axis, shaping not only digestive function but also influencing early brain development and interacting with higher nervous centers. Imbalances in this system are linked with mood disorders, including depression and cognitive changes that can accompany aging or chronic stress.
In depressive states the population of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii often declines, a pattern that researchers view as both a biomarker and a therapeutic target. By boosting beneficial gut bacteria, scientists believe it is possible to reduce symptom burden and improve overall mood through mechanisms that involve anti inflammatory signals and improved gut barrier function.
Studies show probiotic approaches can shift the gut microbiota and reduce depressive signs, highlighting F. prausnitzii as a potential psychobiotic. In animal models and early human trials, sustained probiotic treatment has been associated with lower levels of depressive and anxious symptoms, more regular bowel movements, greater calm, and sharper cognitive clarity over time.
Introducing a probiotic formulation based on a Lactobacillus strain produced noticeable shifts in the composition of the gut microbiota. In human trials, populations of beneficial bacteria rose, including Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, indicating that the probiotic approach can help rebalance the microbial ecosystem associated with mood regulation.
Researchers consider Lactobacillus as a viable adjuvant in probiotic psychobiotics for depressive disorders. Faecalibacterium prausnitzii is viewed as a promising psychobiotic candidate, with ongoing work focused on identifying strains that exhibit antidepressant properties. Because Faecalibacterium prausnitzii is a strict anaerobe, effective antidepressant delivery relies on carefully designed probiotic formulations that protect the bacteria during transit to the gut.
The project received support from an RNF grant, underscoring the importance placed on exploring microbiome based therapies for mental health.
Experts also remind the public that some products can harm eye health and should be avoided to maintain long term vision health, especially when considering dietary supplements or over the counter treatments that claim mood benefits.