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How gut bacteria may affect anxiety

Tiny molecules could be key to microbes’ long-distance effect on the brain

illustration of human gut

GUT REACTION  Scientists may have identified the molecular operatives in the brain that help gut bacteria influence anxiety levels from afar.

ChrisChrisW/iStockphoto

By Maria Temming

- More than 2 years ago

Tiny molecules in the brain may help gut bacteria hijack people’s emotions.

Bacteria living in the human gut have strange influence over mood, depression and more, but it has been unclear exactly how belly-dwelling bacteria exercise remote control of the brain (SN: 4/2/16, p.