Mood and Microbes: Leveraging Probiotics in Depression Treatment
Work Type
Poster
Abstract
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a disorder of impaired neurotransmission and HPA axis dysregulation. It is one of the leading causes of disability in the U.S. and is something we frequently encounter and treat as PAs.
Traditional therapies such as SSRIs and SNRIs are effective for many patients but are frequently associated with adverse effects and incomplete symptom relief.
Currently, clinicians utilize diet, lifestyle, and psychotherapy as adjunct therapeutic treatments in managing MDD.
Probiotics are live microorganisms which increase healthy bacteria and may improve depressive symptoms and restore microbiota homeostasis via modulation of neurotransmitter activity that is faulty in MDD.
The microbiota-gut-brain axis is a bidirectional signaling pathway mediated through vagal, neuroendocrine, immunologic, and metabolic mechanisms. Dysbiosis has been linked to increased pro-inflammatory cytokines, impaired neurotransmitter synthesis, and HPA-axis dysregulation in MDD.
There is evidence that depression is intricately connected to inflammation, immune dysfunction, and metabolic imbalances – which are influenced by the gut microbiome.
This topic was selected based on interest in a novel integrative, therapeutic treatment option for patients diagnosed with MDD.
Publication Date
5-17-2026
Citation Information
Anderson, Makenzie, "Mood and Microbes: Leveraging Probiotics in Depression Treatment" (2026). Student Works Physician Assistant. 50.
https://digitalcommons.dmu.edu/stu_pa/50
