A hidden sense linking the gut and brain
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A team of scientists from Duke University have uncovered evidence of an “extra sense” that may allow gut bacteria to communicate directly with the brain. They traced a series of biochemical actions from the digestive tracts of mice to their brains, revealing a possible pathway for this connection. The findings suggest that microbes in our intestines can influence mood, behavior, and even decision-making by sending signals through nerves and chemical messengers. The discovery could reshape our understanding of how closely the body and mind are connected.
Source
Liu, W.W., Reicher, N., Alway, E. et al. A gut sense for a microbial pattern regulates feeding. Nature 645, 729–736 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-025-09301-7
Additional Reading
https://www.sciencealert.com/an-extra-sense-may-connect-gut-bacteria-with-our-brain
https://medschool.duke.edu/stories/newly-discovered-sixth-sense-links-gut-microbes-brain-real-time