How Stress impacts our Immune function via changes to the microbiome

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The gut microbiota, also known as the microbiome, is a complex ecosystem of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microorganisms that reside in our digestive tract. These microbes play a crucial role in maintaining our health, including aiding in digestion, producing essential nutrients, and regulating our immune system. However, the delicate balance of the gut microbiota can be easily disrupted by various factors, one of the most significant being stress. Stress can affect the composition and function of the gut microbiota, leading to an imbalance known as dysbiosis. Dysbiosis can manifest in several ways, such as a decrease in beneficial bacteria, an overgrowth of harmful bacteria, or a reduction in the overall diversity of the microbiota.    

 

One of the primary ways stress affects the gut microbiota is through the release of stress hormones like cortisol and catecholamines. These hormones can directly influence bacterial growth and metabolism, often favoring the growth of harmful bacteria. For instance, catecholamines have been shown to increase the growth of certain gram-negative bacteria, potentially leading to infections. Stress hormones can also impact bacterial behavior, affecting their motility, biofilm formation, and even their resistance to antibiotics. These changes in the gut microbiota can have far-reaching consequences for our health, as they can compromise the integrity of the gut barrier, leading to increased permeability or "leaky gut."    

 

A leaky gut allows harmful substances like endotoxins and pro-inflammatory molecules to enter the bloodstream, triggering systemic inflammation. This inflammation can affect various parts of the body, including the brain. The gut and the brain are in constant communication through what is known as the gut-brain axis, a complex network involving neural, hormonal, and immune pathways. Stress-induced changes in the gut microbiota can disrupt this communication, potentially leading to mood disorders like anxiety and depression. The gut microbiota also plays a crucial role in shaping our immune system, particularly in the gut, where over 70% of our immune cells reside. Stress-induced dysbiosis can disrupt immune function, making us more susceptible to infections and other diseases.    

 

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