Stress, microbiota, and immunity

Converging lines of evidence suggest that the relationship between the gut and the brain is a factor in the onset of psychopathology. The complexity of this relationship from development to adulthood, and its central roles in general health and wellbeing, are becoming increasingly appreciated. In particular, the composition of bacteria within the gut is now believed to have a key role in mental health. We outline recent literature on alterations in the gut microbiome in response to stress throughout development. We review how these alterations can lead to perturbations in immune responses and to psychiatric disorders, and we discuss current methods of altering the microbiome to treat these disorders. This review aims to provide a better understanding of the relationship between stress, the microbiome, immune responses and psychopathology.