Can Psychobiotics Administration Influence Behavioral Responses and Physiological Stress in Healthy Rats?

Background: Bidirectional communication between gut and brain function is well demonstrated. Evidence is accumulating to suggest that psychobiotics [prebiotics, probiotics or synbiotics)] have beneficial effects of on psychological distress in disease states. However, their role in healthy status remains relatively unclear. Aims: : Therefore, we aimed to clarify if psychobiotics ( L.plantarum , inulin or their combination) can influence behavioral responses and physiological stress in healthy rats. Methods: : Twenty-eight male Wistar rats were divided into four groups. Then, psychobiotics were administered to intervention groups for 8 weeks. Behavioral tests were performed at the end of the intervention. Results: : Our finding indicated that unlike inulin, the administration of L.plantarum and synbiotic could ameliorate depression and anxiety-like behavior and cognitive performance. Serum and brain oxidative stress markers were significantly improved by synbiotic consumption. Also, intake of L.plantarum resulted in the decreased oxidative stress in the hippocampus and amygdala. In addition, a significant increase in hippocampal serotonin and BDNF concentration was observed after symbiotic and L.plantarum intake. Furthermore, there is a strong correlation between serum and brain markers with behavioral performances. Conclusion: Our study suggests that administration of psychobiotics therapy may be associated with prevent or ameliorate psychological disorders.