The role of gut bacteria and brain communication in alcohol use disorder

Altered gut microbiome composition is associated with alcohol use disorder.

• The human intestine hosts various microorganisms that impact the immune system, metabolism, and brain function.
• An imbalance in the gut microbiome may be linked to psychiatric disorders.
• Communication pathways between the gut microbiome and brain include the vagus nerve, inflammatory signals, and metabolites produced by gut bacteria.
• Microbiota-based therapies, such as probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, may offer potential management strategies for alcohol use disorder.

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