Research group Gut microbiota and nutritional psychiatry

Aims

• To investigate how variation in gut microbiota composition relates to mental health outcomes

  Understanding the link between gut microbiota diversity and mental health can uncover microbial patterns associated with mood, cognition, and behavior. By characterizing microbial composition in individuals with varying mental health statuses, we aim to identify specific taxa or community structures associated with protective or risk profiles. This foundational knowledge will help establish microbiota as a relevant factor in mental health research.

• To explore the role of host genetic factors in shaping gut microbiota profiles relevant to mental well-being

  Genetic variation influences gut environment, immunity, and metabolic processes that affect microbial colonization and composition. We aim to focus on identifying genetic variants that correlate with specific gut microbiota profiles, especially those linked to neuroactive pathways. Uncovering these associations will clarify how host genetics predispose individuals to microbiota configurations that may influence mental health.

• To examine how interactions between gut microbiota and host genetics influence mental health

  We aim to integrate microbiome and genomic data in order to investigate whether gene–microbiota interactions contribute uniquely to mental health outcomes. We will assess whether specific combinations of host genotypes and microbial traits are associated with increased or decreased risk for psychological symptoms, going beyond the additive effects of each factor alone.

• To assess the impact of specific dietary patterns on gut microbiota in the context of mental health

  Diet is a key modifiable factor shaping the gut microbiota. We aim to evaluate how particular dietary components or patterns—such as fiber intake, polyphenols, or fermented foods—affect microbial composition and function relevant to mental health. We will focus on microbiota changes that mediate or modify dietary effects on mood and cognition.

• To determine whether diet can modulate the effects of gut microbiota and genetic variation on mental health outcomes

  We investigate diet as an environmental modifier that may buffer or exacerbate the influence of gene–microbiota interactions on mental health. By analyzing dietary intake alongside genomic and microbiome profiles, we aim to identify nutritional strategies that can mitigate genetic risk or support beneficial microbiota profiles in individuals with mental health vulnerabilities

• To identify microbiota-based biomarkers predictive of mental health status

  We focus on developing a set of microbial markers—such as specific taxa, functional genes, or metabolites—that reliably correlate with mental health outcomes. These biomarkers could serve diagnostic, prognostic, or monitoring purposes and may enable early identification of individuals at risk, supporting more targeted and timely interventions.

• To develop personalized nutrition strategies informed by gut microbiota and genetic profiles to support mental well-being

  Building on previous aims, we will design and test personalized nutritional recommendations tailored to individual microbiome and genetic characteristics. The goal is to improve mental health outcomes through targeted, evidence-based dietary interventions that align with a person’s unique biological makeup, paving the way for precision nutrition approaches in mental health care.

Publications

See the publication list of the research group leader on Web of Science.