Amelioration of depression by lactic acid bacteria and its possible mechanism of action

Abstract:

Depression is a prevalent mental health disorder with rising incidence annually. In recent years, the application of lactic acid bacteria as a therapy for depression has garnered great attention. A growing body of animal and human studies has confirmed the antidepressive efficacy of lactic acid bacteria. Studies have revealed that lactic acid bacteria can mitigate the intestinal flora imbalance induced by depression, thereby modulating the behaviors and moods of the host. This review summarized the effects and mechanisms of lactic acid bacteria on depression and discusses the sources of lactic acid bacteria isolated for treating depression, aiming to offer novel perspectives for research on the antidepressive properties of lactic acid bacteria.

Key words:depression;lactic acid bacteria;intestinal flora;research progress