From:  Neurological diseases associated with gut–brain axis: pathophysiology, clinical implications, and therapeutics

 Pathophysiology and neurologic consequences in IBD.

MechanismPathophysiological featuresNeurological consequences
Cytokine-mediated neuroinflammation [118]Elevated TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β cross the BBB or activate microglia; altered serotonin metabolism.Fatigue, sickness behavior, depressive symptoms.
HPA axis dysregulation [119]Chronic inflammation activates the HPA axis; cortisol imbalance affects brain function.Mood instability, cognitive impairment, stress sensitivity.
Tryptophan metabolism shift [120]IDO activation diverts tryptophan to the kynurenine pathway; reduced serotonin synthesis.Depression, cognitive dysfunction.
Microbiota alterations [121]Dysbiosis reduces SCFA-producing bacteria; disrupted microbial neurotransmitter production.Anxiety-like behavior, impaired stress resilience.
Medication effects [124]Corticosteroids worsen mood; anti-TNF agents may reduce systemic inflammation.Exacerbation or improvement of mood symptoms depending on therapy.

BBB: blood-brain barrier; HPA: hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal; IBD: inflammatory bowel disease; IDO: indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase; IL: interleukin; SCFA: short-chain fatty acid; TNF: tumor necrosis factor.