Gut–Brain Axis in Neurodevelopment: Microbial Metabolites and Neurological Function
A special issue of Pathogens (ISSN 2076-0817).
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 January 2026 | Viewed by 8
Special Issue Editor
2. Division of Medicine, University College London, UK
Interests: microbiome; innate immunity; autoimmune diseases; gut–brain axis, Helicobacter pylori; bacterial pathogenesis; gastrointestinal carcinogenesis
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
The gut–brain axis is an emerging interdisciplinary field that connects microbiology, neuroscience, immunology, and developmental biology. Recent research has revealed the critical role of the gut microbiota and its metabolites in shaping neurodevelopment and influencing neurological function throughout life. Disruptions in the microbial ecosystem during key developmental windows have been associated with altered immune signaling, neuroinflammation, and susceptibility to neurological disorders.
This Special Issue aims to highlight novel insights into the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which gut microbes and their bioactive compounds affect brain development and function. We welcome contributions that explore how microbial metabolites influence neural signaling pathways, immune responses, and behavior. Special emphasis will be placed on studies that leverage model systems to dissect host–microbe communication along the gut–brain axis, particularly during early-life or disease states.
The scope of this Special Issue aligns with the journal Pathogens by focusing on microbial factors, host responses, and disease relevance. We hope to bring together interdisciplinary perspectives that will enrich our understanding of microbial contributions to neurodevelopment and open new avenues for diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.
In this Special Issue, original research articles and comprehensive reviews are welcome. Research areas may include (but are not limited to) the following:
- Microbial-derived metabolites that influence brain development or function;
- Interactions between gut microbiota and the nervous or immune systems;
- Host genetic or environmental factors shaping the gut–brain axis;
- The impact of antibiotics, diet, or probiotics on neurodevelopment via microbiome modulation;
- Animal and human studies exploring microbiota–neurodevelopment links;
- Neuroinflammation and microbial pathogenesis.
We look forward to receiving your contributions.
Dr. Xuesong Zhang
Guest Editor
Manuscript Submission Information
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Keywords
- microbiome
- gut–brain axis
- microbial metabolites
- neurodevelopment
- host–microbe interaction
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