Mapping the Impact of Gut Microbiota on Brain and Behavior Through the Lens of GABA

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF READING · Jan 16, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring how the bacteria in our gut might influence our brain and behavior, particularly focusing on a substance called GABA, which is important for brain function. Researchers want to understand if certain gut bacteria that produce GABA can affect brain measurements and how people perform in tasks that rely on GABA. The study aims to learn more about the relationship between gut health and mental health, especially since previous research has shown that imbalances in gut bacteria are linked to conditions like anxiety and depression.

To participate in this trial, you need to be a healthy male between the ages of 18 and 50, of Caucasian descent, and right-handed. You should also have a body mass index (BMI) between 18.5 and 30, and have lived in the UK or another European country during your upbringing. Participants will undergo tests to measure brain activity and behavior while taking a probiotic that produces GABA. It’s important to note that individuals with certain health conditions or those taking specific medications, like antibiotics or psychiatric drugs, may not be eligible to join. If you decide to participate, you can expect to contribute to important research that could lead to better understanding of how our gut and brain communicate.

Gender

MALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Male
• • Right-handed
• • Caucasian/White
• • Between 18 and 50 years of age
• • Grew up in the UK or other European country
• • Body Mass Index 18.5 to 30.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Use of antibiotics within the last 3 months
• • Use of protonic pump inhibitors (PPIs) within the last 3 months
• • Current or history of regular smoking within the last 6 months
• • Regular consumption of \>14 units of alcohol per week
• • Current use of psychotropic drugs for medicinal or recreational purposes
• • Current use of probiotic/prebiotic supplements
• • Current diagnosis of neurological, developmental or psychiatric condition
• • Current diagnosis of gut microbiota related conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease or irritable bowel syndrome