This review article explores how the gut microbiome fundamentally influences social behavior across a wide array of animal species, including humans. By examining the gut-brain axis, researchers highlight how microbial communities affect neurodevelopment, stress responses, and immune function through pathways like the vagus nerve and metabolite production. Evidence from laboratory models demonstrates that specific bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, can mitigate social deficits and regulate hormones like oxytocin. Studies of wild animals further reveal a reciprocal relationship where social interactions increase microbial diversity, which in turn reinforces group bonding and recognition. Ultimately, the authors suggest that targeting the microbiome offers promising therapeutic potential for addressing human conditions characterized by social impairment, such as autism and anxiety.

References:

• Griffiths, J.A., Nirmalkar, K., Wu, WL. et al. The gut microbiome shapes social behaviour across animal species. Nat Rev Microbiol (2025). doi.org