GUT MICROBIOTA AND ITS RELATIONSHIP WITH DEPRESSION

Abstract

Depression is a multifactorial mental disorder that affects millions of people around the world, and is associated with neurochemical, inflammatory, and hormonal changes. Recent studies show that the gut microbiota influences the gut-brain axis, modulating the inflammatory response, the production of neurotransmitters, and the functioning of the immune system. Intestinal dysbiosis, characterized by microbiota imbalance, has been correlated with the worsening of depressive symptoms, being a relevant factor in the pathophysiology of this disorder. The modulation of the microbiota through strategies such as the use of probiotics, prebiotics, a balanced diet, and fecal microbiota transplantation has shown potential in the complementary treatment of depression, promoting the restoration of intestinal homeostasis and reducing systemic inflammatory processes. Thus, this study aims to explore the relationship between the gut microbiota and depression, highlighting the mechanisms involved and therapeutic approaches based on microbiome modulation. The research was conducted through a literature review, analyzing scientific articles published in relevant databases. The findings reinforce the importance of the gut-brain axis in mental health, indicating that the gut microbiota may be a promising therapeutic target in the approach to psychiatric disorders.