A neuroscientist at the University of Bristol has shown that a probiotic bacterium called Mycobacterium vaccae may have beneficial effects on the brain. His findings suggest that the bacteria may help prevent the onset of PTSD in mice. The bacteria may also protect the brain from inflammation caused by stress. But more studies are needed to determine the benefits of this bacteria. To learn more, read on.
Probiotic Benefits For the Brain
The bacteria, Mycobacterium vaccae, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety effects in mice. The researchers are currently conducting a clinical trial that will test whether the bacteria may help people with PTSD. The researchers are planning to give the bacteria to military veterans suffering from PTSD and mild traumatic brain injury. The researchers are currently conducting a study in the Department of Veterans Affairs to test the effect of Mycobacterium vaccae on these veterans.
The bacteria were injected into mice before they were placed with a male aggressively agitated for 19 days. The mice treated with Mycobacterium vaccae showed a 50% lower rate of stress-induced colitis mycobacterium vaccae probiotic. Furthermore, they were less likely to suffer system-wide inflammation and were significantly less anxious. In the mice treated with Mycobacterium vaccae, the expression of a gene called tph2 increased. This gene plays an important role in the biosynthesis of serotonin, which can modulate anxiety.
While the research is early, the potential for Mycobacterium vaccae to have beneficial effects on the body has been bold. In fact, the bacteria could be used to create a probiotic vaccine for people who are prone to stress. This would help these individuals cope with the effects of stress and prevent the onset of symptoms of PTSD. In addition, Mycobacterium vaccae could help protect the brain from the damaging effects of sepsis.
