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@article{184943,
        author = {Prerna Gusain and Dhanshree Lakudkar and Md Quamruz Zafar},
        title = {Gut Brain Axis Modulation Through Prebiotic & Probiotic Botanicals},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2025},
        volume = {12},
        number = {4},
        pages = {4041-4047},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=184943},
        abstract = {Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is one of the most important inhibitory neurotransmitters in the human brain. It plays a central role in maintaining the balance between neuronal excitation and inhibition, thereby influencing mood regulation, emotional stability, and stress response. In recent years, scientists have discovered that GABA’s function is not restricted to the brain alone but also extends to the gut, where it forms part of a complex bidirectional communication system known as the gut–brain axis. This system links the central nervous system (CNS) with the gastrointestinal tract, allowing signals to travel in both directions. Growing evidence suggests that the gut microbiota – the diverse community of microorganisms living in the intestines – contributes significantly to this communication through what is called GABAergic signaling. Certain gut bacteria are capable of producing GABA or modulating its receptors, thereby directly influencing neural pathways that regulate stress, anxiety, and even cognitive functions. This emerging field of research, often referred to as the microbiota–gut–brain axis, is shedding light on how mental health can be shaped by gut health. Probiotics and prebiotics have become important focus areas in this context. Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, confer health benefits to the host. Some strains, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium longum, have demonstrated the ability to either produce GABA or positively influence its signaling pathways. In animal studies, these bacteria have been linked to reduced anxiety-like behavior, suggesting that they may act as natural modulators of mood. On the other hand, prebiotics – dietary fibers that serve as nourishment for beneficial gut bacteria – also play a crucial role. By encouraging the growth and activity of probiotic strains, prebiotics indirectly enhance the production and activity of GABA. This dual approach of combining probiotics with prebiotics, often referred to as synbiotics, is now being explored as a promising natural strategy for mental health support. 
Altogether, these findings highlight the therapeutic potential of microbiota-based interventions. By targeting GABA regulation through gut bacteria, it may be possible to develop novel, nonpharmacological approaches for managing conditions such as anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders. This perspective represents an exciting shift in neuroscience and mental health research, emphasizing the power of nutrition and microbial balance in shaping brain function and emotional wellbeing.},
        keywords = {Gut-brain axis, prebiotics, probiotics, psycobiotics, mental health.},
        month = {September},
        }