Gut Microbiota as an Endocrine Organ: Unveiling Its Role in Human Physiology and Health
Source abstract
Abstract
The gut microbiota, recognised for its vital functions in host health, operates as an endocrine organ, exerting systemic effects beyond the gastrointestinal tract. This “virtual organ” produces hormones that influence distal organs, including the brain. With its diverse microbial composition, the gut microbiota surpasses the biochemical complexity of traditional endocrine organs, generating neurotransmitters like GABA, dopamine, and serotonin. Despite challenges in culturing gut bacteria, advances in research methodologies have elucidated their role in behaviour, metabolism, appetite, and insulin resistance. As microbial endocrinology continues to evolve, further exploration of the intricate connections between hormones and the microbiome are anticipated, highlighting hormones’ pivotal role in the dynamic host–microbiota relationship.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline
Research context
OpenAlex topics: Gut microbiota and health · Diet and metabolism studies · Dietary Effects on Health
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
Affiliations
Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal
Grupo de Investigación en Polifenoles (GIP-USAL), Campus Miguel de Unamuno s/n, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
Laboratório Associado para Sustentabilidade e Tecnologia em Regiões de Montanha (SusTEC), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal
Funding
Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT, Portugal)
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