Our daily environment may well hide invisible actors influencing our most intimate emotions, such as love.
Researchers are examining the role of microorganisms present in soil and air, suggesting that they interact with our gut microbiota and modulate our emotional states through biological pathways. This exploration opens surprising perspectives on how our microbial ecosystem shapes our human relationships.
Scientists from Flinders University, including Dr. Jake Robinson, have published a synthesis in
mSystems detailing how environmental microbes could affect the gut-brain axis. They hypothesize that these microorganisms influence the production of key hormones and neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and oxytocin, which are involved in loving feelings. This approach combines microbiology and endocrinology to trace plausible biological pathways, without claiming direct causality, but encouraging further studies.
Beyond love, these microbial-endocrine interactions could shed light on other emotions, such as hatred or aggression, based on evolutionary foundations. Researchers emphasize that confirming these mechanisms could lead to innovative strategies for mental health and relational well-being by adjusting our exposure to beneficial microbes.
Healthy soils emit chemical and microbial signals, support vegetation that improves air quality, and create immersive environments affecting the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems. Conversely, soil degradation can increase harmful particles in the air and reduce aerobiome diversity, with potential effects on inflammation and mental health.
The gut-brain axis
The gut-brain axis is a bidirectional communication system between the digestive system and the brain, involving nervous, hormonal, and immune signals. It allows the gut microbiota to influence brain functions, including mood and emotions.
Gut microbes produce metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids, which can cross the blood-brain barrier and affect neurotransmitter production. For example, certain bacteria stimulate the synthesis of serotonin, a key neurotransmitter for mood regulation.
Imbalances in the microbiota, called dysbiosis, have been associated with mental disorders such as depression or anxiety. This shows the importance of a diet rich in fiber and probiotics to maintain a healthy microbial balance.
Research on this axis opens avenues for therapies targeting the microbiota, such as probiotics or specific diets, to improve mental health without relying solely on traditional medications.