Bifidobacterium breve M-16V regulates the autonomic nervous system via the intestinal environment: A double-blind, placebo-controlled study

Behav Brain Res. 2024 Mar 5:460:114820. doi: 10.1016/j.bbr.2023.114820. Epub 2023 Dec 20.

Abstract

We conducted a randomized controlled trial to investigate the potential of Bifidobacterium breve M-16 V to improve mood in humans. In this evaluation, we incorporated the use of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), which has been used to evaluate mood states in studies with small sample sizes. Participants were given B. breve M-16 V (20 billion cells/day) for 6 weeks, and their mood state was assessed before and after ingestion. NIRS data were collected at rest and during a mental arithmetic task (under stress). Intake of B. breve M-16 V decreased the heart rate under stress and increased levels of the GABA-like substance pipecolic acid in stool samples. In addition, B. breve M-16 V improved mood and sleep scores in participants with high anxiety levels. These results suggest that B. breve M-16 V affects the metabolites of the gut microbiota and has the potential to modulate the autonomic nervous system and to improve mood and sleep.

Keywords: Gut-brain axis; Metabolite; Microbiota; Mood; NIRS.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Autonomic Nervous System
  • Bifidobacterium breve*
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Humans
  • Intestines
  • Probiotics* / pharmacology
  • Thalidomide / analogs & derivatives*

Substances

  • EM 16
  • Thalidomide