The microbiota-gut-brain axis is a complex communication system between the gut, microbiota, enteric, and central nervous systems. This axis is crucial in regulating various physiological processes, including the regulation of circadian rhythms. Circadian rhythms are biological processes that govern cyclical changes in physiological and behavioural functions in a 24-hour period. These rhythms are regulated by a master clock located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus, which is entrained by external cues such as light and temperature.
Our circadian rhythm is intrinsically involved in multiple physiological and behavioural processes, such as maintaining metabolic homeostasis and influencing physical activity, sleep and other bodily functions. The aim of this research is to investigate the role of the microbiota-gut-brain axis in circadian rhythm regulation as well as to address the questions of whether there are differences in how the brain and gut communicate during the day compared to at night and whether the microbiome can be used to modulate circadian rhythmicity.
This study hypothesises that the microbiota-gut-brain axis plays a critical role in regulating the body’s circadian rhythm and that disturbances to the normal physiological rhythm of our body play a role in many diseases. Although many studies examine the connection between the microbiota-gut-brain axis and mental illness and metabolic disorders, there is limited research on how the circadian rhythm interacts with this axis and the consequences of such an interaction.
Since circadian rhythm greatly impacts host health, this project aims to expand the knowledge about interactions of our biological clock and the microbiota-gut-brain axis. The findings from this study will help us better understand circadian processes and interactions in our bodies and pave the way for microbiome-based therapies for circadian rhythm-associated conditions. The research also has potential implications for understanding and treating sleep disorders and related neurological conditions.