The Role of the Gut-Brain Axis on the Development of Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction (POCD)

Bolt, Stijn (2021) The Role of the Gut-Brain Axis on the Development of Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction (POCD). Bachelor's Thesis, Biology.

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Abstract

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a disorder that impairs cognitive functioning as a consequence of surgery or anesthesia. A possible underlying mechanism of POCD is the gut-brain axis. The gut-brain axis is a bidirectional communication system between the gut and the brain via multiple pathways. Information about the intestine is sensed by enteric innervation via vagal afferent fibers, while the central nervous system (CNS) affects the gut by efferent fibers. Surgery can cause compositional changes of the gut microbiota, leading to the upregulation of inflammatory cytokines. The upregulated inflammatory mediators, together with the dysbiosis, impair the intestinal epithelial barrier, ultimately leading to a leaky gut. As a consequence, all kind of bacteria and toxins escape the gut lumen and enter the bloodstream. The increased pro-inflammatory cytokines in the circulation, together with the presence of mast cells and serotonin, are contributing to the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Subsequently, this will lead to the activation of microglia, further amplifying the neuroinflammation. Neuroinflammation can lead to neuronal damage and cognitive impairments underlying POCD. Thus, there are sufficient mechanisms existing which represent the role of the gut-brain axis in the development of POCD. Potential treatments for POCD patients involve vagal stimulation and the use of probiotics, which intervene with the inflammatory reactions and the dysbiosis.

Item Type:	Thesis (Bachelor's Thesis)
Supervisor name:	Schoemaker, R.G.
Degree programme:	Biology
Thesis type:	Bachelor's Thesis
Language:	English
Date Deposited:	07 Jul 2021 10:26
Last Modified:	07 Jul 2021 10:26
URI:	https://fse.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/25030

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