443-The Gut Microbiome and Social Behaviour

Paper Talk · Jan 29, 2026 · 18m

This review article explores how the gut microbiome fundamentally influences social behavior across a wide array of animal species, including humans. By examining the gut-brain axis, researchers highlight how microbial communities affect neurodevelopment, stress responses, and immune function through pathways like the vagus nerve and metabolite production. Evidence from laboratory models demonstrates that specific bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, can mitigate social deficits and regulate hormones like oxytocin. Studies of wild animals further reveal a reciprocal…