The microbiota-gut-brain-epigenome axis as a novel therapeutic target for decoding postpartum depression
Abstract
Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a psychological disorder affecting approximately 10-15% of women following childbirth, with significant implications for maternal and infant well-being. While hormonal fluctuations and psychosocial factors have long been considered primary contributors, recent reports demonstrated that gut microbiome is implicated in modulating maternal mood and behavior. The bidirectional communication between the gut and brain, mediated by microbiota-gut-brain axis, along with genetic and epigenetic modifications, has gained increasing attention as a potential mechanistic pathway in PPD. However, the precise genetic and epigenetic underpinnings of this interaction remain to be elucidated.
Objective: This review aims to explore the genetic and epigenetic landscape of postpartum depression, with a significant focus pertinent to gut microbiota role in shaping neurobiological outcomes. By integrating recent findings from genomic, epigenomic, and microbiome research, we seek to elucidate novel mechanistic insights and potential therapeutic avenues.
Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using public databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, and NCBI, to identify relevant studies on PPD, gut microbiota, genetics, and epigenetics.
Results: Gut microbiota and neuroimmune modulation: peripartum changes in gut microbiota composition have been linked to immune dysregulation, inflammation, and neurotransmitter imbalances, all of which are…
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Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid.
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