Richter Max¹, Neumann Tom², Weber Tim³, Richter Ben⁴, Lange Marie⁵, Becker Lukas⁶, Schmidt Tom⁷, Franke Tim⁸
ABSTRACT:
Emerging evidence highlights the gut–brain axis as a critical interface in psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders, including depression, schizophrenia, and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This review synthesizes current knowledge on multi-level biomarker signatures of gut–brain axis dysregulation, encompassing microbial (e.g., Bacteroides, Clostridium), metabolic (short-chain fatty acids, tryptophan metabolites), immune (cytokines, LPS), and neuroendocrine (cortisol, BDNF) components. We discuss how these biomarkers reflect disrupted gut–brain communication and their potential for diagnostic stratification, monitoring treatment response, and guiding personalized interventions (e.g., probiotics, dietary modifications). Challenges in biomarker validation and translational applications are addressed, with future directions emphasizing multi-omics integration and systems biology approaches to unravel the complex interplay between gut microbiota and neuropsychiatric pathophysiology.