Influence of Gut Microbiota on Neurodevelopment: A Literature Review
Italo Nogarotto Cembraneli, Eurípedes Barsanulfo Borges dos Reis, Paola Cristina Ferreira Santos, Alessa Alves Azevedo Teixeira, Julia Brasileiro de Faria Cavalcante, Pedro Nogarotto Cembraneli
The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in the development of the central nervous system (CNS) from
the gestational period through the early years of life. Growing evidence shows that changes in its
composition—known as dysbiosis—are associated with neurological and behavioral disorders such as
autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and anxiety. This study aims to review the current literature on
the relationship between the microbiota and neurodevelopment, highlighting the involved mechanisms,
influencing factors, and potential clinical applications. Scientific articles were selected from databases
such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. The findings point to a bidirectional communication
between the gut and the brain, mediated by immunological, metabolic, and neuroendocrine pathways,
with therapeutic potential through interventions such as probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota
transplantation. It is concluded that modulating the microbiota represents a promising pathway to
promote neurological health in children.
