Clinically shown to support positive mood by influencing the gut-brain axis through the microbiome.

Target gb-X with Ecologic BARRIER was specifically designed to influence the gut-brain axis through defined mechanisms including strengthening of the gut barrier function, modulation of cytokines and inflammatory response, production of potentially neuroprotective metabolites, and HPA regulation. Preclinical research emphasized a pronounced shift away from macrophage-produced cytokines to T-lymphocyte-produced cytokines, a reduction in circulating lipopolysaccharide endotoxins, and a marked reduction in transcription of hippocampal genes related to HPA regulation.

The gut-brain axis refers to the bidirectional communication network between the central and autonomic nervous systems and the intestines. Gut-brain communications are mediated by the immune system, endocrine connections such as the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and neural pathways involving the enteric nervous system. The gut microbiota is now known to play a pivotal role in gut-brain communications. It is a complex interaction whereas the microbiota engages locally with intestinal cells as well as communicating directly with the central nervous system through neuroendocrine, immune, and metabolic pathways. Research into gut-brain mechanisms is rapidly expanding our understanding and serves to inform the development of targeted probiotic formulations.