Development of an efficient hypocholesterolemic formulation from mushroom bioresidues through a sustainable integrated strategy.

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Gut Microbiota as an Endocrine Organ: Unveiling Its Role in Human Physiology and Health

Publication . Pires, Lara; Gonzalez-Paramás, Ana Maria; Heleno, Sandrina A.; Calhelha, Ricardo C.

The gut microbiota, recognised for its vital functions in host health, operates as an endocrine organ, exerting systemic effects beyond the gastrointestinal tract. This “virtual organ” produces hormones that influence distal organs, including the brain. With its diverse microbial composition, the gut microbiota surpasses the biochemical complexity of traditional endocrine organs, generating neurotransmitters like GABA, dopamine, and serotonin. Despite challenges in culturing gut bacteria, advances in research methodologies have elucidated their role in behaviour, metabolism, appetite, and insulin resistance. As microbial endocrinology continues to evolve, further exploration of the intricate connections between hormones and the microbiome are anticipated, highlighting hormones’ pivotal role in the dynamic host–microbiota relationship.

2024Journal article

Open access