OVERVIEW

Microbiota Regulation of Brain Function and Disease is organized by Neuroscience School of Advanced Studies (NSAS) and will be held from May 16 - 23, 2026 in Venice, Veneto, Italy.

Description:
The gut microbiome is now recognised as a key regulator of health and disease across virtually all body systems—including the brain. The microbiota–gut–brain axis has emerged as a major focus of research in neurodevelopmental, neurodegenerative, age-related, and psychiatric disorders. While much of the evidence derives from model systems, the precise pathways of gut–brain communication are still being clarified. Proposed routes include the vagus nerve, the immune system, tryptophan metabolism, the enteric nervous system, and microbial metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs).

Animal studies have shown that a healthy stress response depends on the microbiota. Early-life factors, including birth mode, antibiotic use, nutrition, infection, stress, and host genetics, shape microbiome development. In contrast, reduced microbial diversity in later life is often linked to poor health. Stress impacts the microbiota–gut–brain axis across the lifespan, contributing to disorders such as depression, anxiety, and irritable bowel syndrome. Beyond these, the microbiome has been implicated in conditions including autism spectrum disorder, traumatic brain injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. At a mechanistic level, fundamental brain processes—from hippocampal neurogenesis and blood–brain barrier integrity to myelination and microglial activation—are now understood to be influenced by the microbiome.

This Advanced Course will explore the tools and strategies used to investigate how the microbiome influences brain function and behaviour. The Faculty will cover the full spectrum of microbiome science—from basic mechanisms to clinical medicine and population-level studies—highlighting its intersections with neuroimmunology, neuroendocrinology, nutrition, neurology, and psychiatry. The programme will also critically examine both the promise and the hype surrounding nutritional and microbial-based interventions for brain disorders. It is designed for basic and clinical scientists at all career stages. All sessions will emphasise open, interactive discussion, with strong encouragement for participants to actively engage with the Faculty.