Data from Federal University Rio de Janeiro Update Knowledge in Anxiety Disorders (Alterations in Vagal Tone Are Associated with Changes in the Gut Microbiota of Adults with Anxiety and Depression Symptoms: Analysis of Fecal Metabolite Profiles).

A study conducted at the Federal University Rio de Janeiro in Brazil explored the relationship between gut microbiota and anxiety and depression symptoms in young, healthy adults. The researchers used metabolomics to analyze fecal metabolic profiles and found that certain metabolites, such as acetate, valerate, and glutamate, were associated with differences in anxiety and depression scores and heart rate variability. The study also identified differences in the Firmicutes phylum between participants with high and low vagal tone, suggesting a connection between specific metabolites and communication between the vagus nerve and the brain. This research provides further evidence of the impact of gut-brain interactions on mental health. [Extracted from the article]