In this project, we investigate how new insights from the gut microbiome can contribute to better diagnostics and treatment within mental healthcare.
Gut microbiome and mental health
Diagnosing and treating mental disorders is often complex and multifactorial. The effectiveness of therapies is relatively limited, and treatment trajectories are often lengthy. New biological insights can help to better support treatments. The gut microbiome may play an important role in this. Via the gut-brain axis, the microbiome communicates with the brain and contributes to the production of neurotransmitters.
The gut microbiome is a dynamic system influenced by factors including diet, medication, and stress. By analyzing the gut microbiome, personalized dietary advice can be developed. This could potentially help patients improve the balance of the microbiome – and consequently, the balance of neurotransmitters.
Project setup
The aim of this project is to investigate the feasibility and added value of microbiome-based dietary advice in patients with psychosis susceptibility, in whom changes in the gut microbiome are expected. A total of up to 50 participants receiving treatment at KieN VIP (Early Innovative Psychosis Care) will be included.
Participants take part in three measurement sessions during which a stool sample is collected. These samples are analyzed in the Biotrack laboratory using the innovative, patented C-FISH technology. This maps, among other things, the neurotransmitter production capacity of the gut microbiome. Based on this analysis, participants receive personalized dietary advice.
Within the project, it is being investigated whether administering these tests and applying the dietary advice is feasible within this target group. This is being evaluated using questionnaires for both participants and practitioners, examining feasibility, acceptance, and suitability. Additionally, laboratory research is being conducted to determine whether changes occur in the microbiome, such as changes in microbial diversity, dysbiosis, and colonization resistance.
Cooperation and financing
This project is a collaboration between Biotrack and KieN VIP and has received a grant of €88,000
This project is made possible by the European Regional Development Fund 2021-2027 (ERDF).
Our project contributes to these development(s) in the Northern Netherlands:
from care to (positive) health.
