Journal of Probiotics & Health
Open Access

Abstract

Microbes, Oxytocin, and Healthful longevity

Susan E Erdman

The microbiome is shown to have important roles in human health. Recent studies in mice show intestinal microbes stimulate host neuropeptide oxytocin and immune physiology in a mind-body paradigm with diverse outputs improved systemic wound-healing capacity. Oxytocin is best known for roles in reproduction and immunity, but is more recently implicated in obesity, human bonding, and trust. Microbial reprogramming of host oxytocin may offer far-reaching benefits in physical, mental, and social health for healthful longevity.