Exploring the Gut-Brain Axis: Microbiota Differences and Anxiety in Mice
Faculty Mentor
Karin Melkonia
Area of Research
Biology, Microbiology
Major
Biology
Description
INTRODUCTION: The gut-brain axis is a complex and bidirectional communication network that links the gastrointestinal tract to the brain. The human gut contains trillions of bacteria, known for their influence on systemic responses. The bacteria in the gut aid in the production of neurotransmitters, known for regulating mood, anxiety, and stress. Studies have found that dysregulation of the gut microbiota has led to increased levels of anxiety.
METHOD: Mice are often used to model humans in research, as they are biologically similar in their processes. In this experiment, 10 male mice were sampled. Five mice had a diet of normal food, while the other five mice had a diet of organic food. Their guts were swabbed using aseptic technique after euthanasia and plated on agar in serial dilutions. Through tests such as the elevated maze and the mirror chamber, their behavior and anxiety levels were recorded.
RESULTS: The growth after incubation was examined, and any differences in quantity or appearance were noted. The results from both the plating and the tests were compared to observe any correlations.
DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: This experiment aimed to determine if mice who exhibited more anxious behaviors had different gut flora than those who did not. This experiment also looked into whether organic or inorganic food has any effect on gut microbiota.
Exploring the Gut-Brain Axis: Microbiota Differences and Anxiety in Mice
INTRODUCTION: The gut-brain axis is a complex and bidirectional communication network that links the gastrointestinal tract to the brain. The human gut contains trillions of bacteria, known for their influence on systemic responses. The bacteria in the gut aid in the production of neurotransmitters, known for regulating mood, anxiety, and stress. Studies have found that dysregulation of the gut microbiota has led to increased levels of anxiety.
METHOD: Mice are often used to model humans in research, as they are biologically similar in their processes. In this experiment, 10 male mice were sampled. Five mice had a diet of normal food, while the other five mice had a diet of organic food. Their guts were swabbed using aseptic technique after euthanasia and plated on agar in serial dilutions. Through tests such as the elevated maze and the mirror chamber, their behavior and anxiety levels were recorded.
RESULTS: The growth after incubation was examined, and any differences in quantity or appearance were noted. The results from both the plating and the tests were compared to observe any correlations.
DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: This experiment aimed to determine if mice who exhibited more anxious behaviors had different gut flora than those who did not. This experiment also looked into whether organic or inorganic food has any effect on gut microbiota.