A new generation of probiotics — psychobiotics, their purpose and functions

Abstract

A review of the literature on the etiological role of the microbiome in the treatment of depressive disorders is presented based on an analysis of 98 literature sources for 2000–2020, of which 35 are domestic and 63 are foreign. Evidence is substantiated that the gut microbiome may represent a new potential target of antidepressant therapy. The emergence of a new class of probiotics (psychobiotics), as well as possible psychobiotic treatments, could be a promising strategy for improving the quality of life of people suffering from neurodegenerative diseases and developmental disorders of the nervous system.

Keywords

• microbiota–gut–brain axis
• probiotics
• psychobiotics
• nervous system
• neurodegenerative diseases
• dopamine
• norepinephrine
• serotonin