In studying the brain-gut axis, scientists focused on neuropods — sensory cells lining the colon epithelium. It turned out that these cells detect the bacterial protein flagellin and quickly transmit a signal to the brain that there is enough food, Science Daily reports . This mechanism, called the neurobiotic sense, controls appetite.
Further experiments showed that neuropods recognize the protein using the TLR5 receptor, transmitting a signal through the vagus nerve. Without TLR5, communication is disrupted and the satiety signal is lost.
"Blocking this signaling pathway changed the eating habits of mice, so we see a deeper connection between the gut microbiota and behavior," the authors said. They now want to understand how certain diets alter the microbiota and what impact this has on the risks of mental disorders and obesity.
Investigating the signaling features of the brain-gut axis is important for better understanding human physiology. For example, scientists have recently discovered how the brain monitors the gut. This discovery also makes an important contribution to the study of eating behavior and the correction of disorders.
