Abstract
IntroductionIn recent years there has been increasing interest in knowing the function of the microbiota, especially its role in the gut-brain axis. The microbiota is the set of millions of microorganisms that coexist in a symbiotic way in our body and are located in the digestive tract mainly. Numerous evidences show that the microbiota could modulate the information directed to the brain and therefore the pathogenic basis of numerous psychiatric and neurological disorders.ObjectivesA better understanding of the microbiota and its interaction with the brain and mental health.MethodsReview of recent literature about the implications of the gut microbiota in psychiatry.ResultsThe connection between the microbiota and the central nervous system (gut-brain axis) occurs through the vagus nerve, the systemic pathway (through the release of hormones, metabolites and neurotransmitters) and the immune system (through the action of cytokines). Changes in the microbiota are associated not only with gastrointestinal diseases, but also with disorders such as depression, anxiety, autism, anorexia, attention deficit and hyperactivity, Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. As some research indicates, changes in diet and composition of the microbiota can reduce the risk of suffering these diseases or reduce their symptoms. Other therapeutic alternatives postulated are the use of probiotics or fecal microbiota transplantation.ConclusionsDespite growing interest in the microbiota in the last few years, little is known about the mechanisms underlying this communication. More research is expected to contribute to the design of strategies that modulate the gut microbiota and its functions in order to improve mental health.
Highlights
In the United Kingdom, the move from trainee to consultant psychiatrist can be both exciting and daunting
This workshop highlighted the importance of building the capacity of medical students to tackle the burden of Mental Health globally and within the region, and how similar student-led initiatives can further empower them to be change agents and impactful advocates for better Mental Health in their own communities
Having an organised meeting for new consultants could help bridge this gap with peer-led support
Summary
The forum was popular and the feedback was excellent. Using an online format worked well and made it easier to organise and plan sessions. There is potential to implement similar fora for other senior psychiatrists across Europe. Childhood trauma and mental disorders: Exploring the relationship between trauma, immunity and psychosis. Manuel2 1Mental Health Department, Hospital Professor Doutor Fernando Fonseca, Lisboa (Amadora), Portugal; 2Mental Health Department, Hospital Professor Doutor Fernando Fonseca, Lisboa (Amadora), Portugal and 3Psychiatry, Hospital Professor Doutor Fernando Fonseca, Lisboa (Amadora), Portugal *Corresponding author.
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