Microbiome and Brain Development: A Tale of Two Systems

Recent evidence highlights the crucial role of the microbiota-gut-brain axis in regulating brain development, particularly during the first 1,000 days of life. During this period, the gut microbiome and brain develop in parallel, with microbial interactions influencing brain structure and function, leading to long-lasting effects on neurodevelopment. This article discusses the growing recognition of the connection between the gut microbiome and early brain development as well as the factors—such as delivery mode, antibiotic use, types of feeding, infections, and genetic predispositions—that may influence the composition of the early-life microbiota. Continued research is key to understanding how the gut microbiome affects long-term cognitive and behavioral outcomes.