Beyond the Gut: Integrating Oral Microbiota into the Microbiota–Brain Axis in Depression

Nearly 300 million people are affected by depression worldwide.

• Major depressive disorder cases have risen by 28% post-COVID-19, particularly among women and young adults.
• Depression is characterized by low mood, cognitive impairment, suicidal thoughts, sleep issues, appetite changes, and fatigue.
• Current treatments for depression have limited effectiveness and there is a lack of reliable diagnostic biomarkers.
• Emerging evidence suggests the oral microbiome may influence neuropsychiatric health and could be linked to depression.
• Oral microbial imbalances may affect depression through immune, inflammatory, and neuroactive pathways.
• Incorporating oral microbial profiling into research may enhance understanding of depression and support the development of new treatments.

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