Gut-Brain Axis and Neurodegeneration
The Gut-Brain Axis refers to the bidirectional communication system between the gastrointestinal tract (the gut) and the brain. It involves complex interactions between the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord, and the enteric nervous system (ENS), which is a specialized network of neurons located in the gut. These two systems are connected through various pathways, including neural, hormonal, and immune signaling. Neurodegeneration, on the other hand, is a term used to describe the progressive loss of structure and function of neurons in the brain.