MICRoBCOM

Microbiome, obesity & depression
Research Area Gut-Brain

Identification of intervention strategies based on the intestinal microbiome to reduce the risk of developing obesity, depression and their comorbidities. MICRoBCOM. AGL2017-88801-P. Ministry of Science and Innovation 2018-20. Principal Investigator: Prof. Yolanda Sanz

This project investigates the relationship between gut microbiome, major depressive disorder and metabolic comorbidities. Specifically, we intend to identify unique and shared microbiome signatures associated with major depressive disorder with or without metabolic comorbidities in humans. We also aim to demonstrate the possible causal role of specific microbiotas or single intestinal bacteria in both depressive symptoms and metabolic conditions (obesity and metabolic syndrome) in experimental models.



Objectives

  • Identify associations between the gut microbiota, metabolic and immune profiles and depression in humans
  • Determine the mechanisms whereby the microbiota and the diet regulate the gut-brain axis and influence depression and metabolic morbidities (obesity and metabolic syndrome)
  • Identify intestinal bacteria and bacterial products that could ameliorate or reduce the risk of developing depression and/or metabolic morbidities

Strategy

  • Observational study in human subjects with or without major depressive disorder and metabolic comorbidities
  • Gut microbiome, metabolome and immune analysis in biological samples
  • Models of depression and obesity to prove causality for specific intestinal bacteria

Impact

  • Knowledge about the mechanisms contributing to depression and metabolic disorders
  • Microbiome-based interventions to prevent or reduce the impact of depression and obesity-related disorders