The Gut-Microbiota-Brain Axis: Focus on Gut Steroids

This review examines the gut-microbiota-brain axis, focusing on the gut's ability to produce steroids locally and its interaction with gut microbiota. It highlights the role of gut bacteria in metabolizing steroids, affecting both local and systemic levels, and influencing conditions like inflammatory bowel disease and hormone-related disorders. The review discusses the impact of treatments such as finasteride and SSRIs on gut steroids and microbiota, suggesting potential therapeutic implications for conditions with sex-specific components. It also explores the role of pregnenolone in neuroprotection and anti-inflammation, with potential applications for disorders like schizophrenia and Parkinson's disease. The review calls for further research to understand these interactions and develop new therapeutic strategies.