Nutrients and Gut Microbiota-Derived Nutrients in Brain Homeostasis: From Basic Mechanisms to Diseases and Identification of Possible Therapeutic Targets

Dear Colleagues,

Although the role of nutrients in brain homeostasis is well-known, the fine regulatory mechanisms and possible consequences due to alterations in nutrients-related pathways following metabolic defects (e.g., inborn errors) or nutrient deficiency remain to be further investigated. Expanding our knowledge in this field could not only contribute to better characterizing nutrient–metabolism regulatory pathways but also to identifying therapeutic targets. For instance, the description of some regulatory mechanisms such as insulin-IGF, AMPK/mTOR, and transcription factors (CREB and Sirt-1) in the brain opened up a new point of view on neural stem cell fate decision, neurodegeneration, and brain aging linked to the metabolic status of cells and the availability of specific nutrients (both macro- and micronutrients). In addition, the involvement of nutrients has been reported in high-order cognitive functions. Moreover, a strong relationship between gut microbiota and brain homeostasis has emerged in recent years. Indeed, microbiota-derived metabolites are nutrients including short-chain fatty acids, B vitamins, and vitamin K, and changes in microbiota balance (due to nutrition and alterations in the gastroenteric tract, such as the resection of a part of it, inflammatory bowel disease, infections, etc.) lead to modifications in the gut–brain axis, thus affecting brain homeostasis.

Altogether, several pieces of evidence and findings support the pivotal role of nutrients in the maintenance of brain homeostasis; however, the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms have not been fully described.

For the Special Issue “Nutrients and Gut Microbiota-Derived Nutrients in Brain Homeostasis: From Basic Mechanisms to Diseases and Identification of Possible Therapeutic Targets”, we welcome your contributions in the form of original research and review articles on molecular and cellular aspects regarding nutrients (micro- and macronutrients and gut microbiota-derived nutrients) and nutrients-related pathways, including inborn error defects, and their role in physiological and pathophysiological metabolic processes related to the brain.

Dr. Marco Fidaleo
Guest Editor

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