Bipolar and schizophrenia spectrum disorders as seen through the second brain: gut microbiota as a new field of treatment
Bipolar and schizophrenia spectrum disorders as seen through the second brain: gut microbiota as a new field of treatment
This dissertation of Jenny Borkent, called "Bipolar and schizophrenia spectrum disorders as seen through the second brain: Gut microbiota as a new field of treatment", explores the relationship between the gut microbiome, bacterial translocation (or intestinal permeability), and psychiatric disorders such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
We examined differences in the composition of the gut microbiome, inflammatory processes, and intestinal permeability between individuals with and without these conditions. Additionally, we investigated whether associations exist within these patient groups between gut biomarkers and clinical characteristics of the disorders.
Finally, a large-scale clinical trial was conducted to evaluate whether probiotics have a beneficial effect on psychiatric symptoms, gastrointestinal complaints, and markers of intestinal permeability. The findings presented in this dissertation contribute to a deeper understanding of the role of the gut-brain axis in severe psychiatric disorders and open up new perspectives for potential treatment strategies.