O eixo intestino-cérebro e a microbiota intestinal: desenvolvimento e validação de uma ferramenta de comunicação em saúde para profissionais da saúde

Abstract

With the evolution of medicine, the field of research into the importance of the intestinal microbiota has been gaining ground, with evidence of its symbiotic role with the human host, favoring a healthy physiology through a microbiome. The communication of this microbiota and its metabolites with the brain, known as the gut-brain axis, is formed by a sophisticated system involving the endocrine, immunological and neuronal pathways, integrating signals that influence everything from metabolic functions to cognitive and emotional processes. Current scientific literature has pointed out that disturbances in this axis, caused by imbalances in the microbial composition - a phenomenon known as dysbiosis - can be the triggering or progression factor for various diseases, ranging from gastrointestinal disorders to neuropsychiatric, neurodegenerative and metabolic illnesses. Considering the complexity of the subject and its growing relevance to clinical practice, there is a gap in the knowledge of health professionals about the intestinal microbiota and its systemic impact. To meet this need, the idea was to create an up-to-date, easy-to-understand educational material that could guide and sensitize professionals to the importance of intestinal health in the context of the gut-brain axis. This initiative consisted of producing an informative e-book, the content of which was based on a narrative review of recent scientific literature, first addressing the biological mechanisms that govern the functioning of the axis, with emphasis on the leading bacterial groups and their essential metabolites for organic balance. The material then delved into the main diseases related to dysbiosis, detailing their gastrointestinal, metabolic and neuropsychiatric manifestations, as well as the most prevalent neurodegenerative conditions. The content sought to translate complex knowledge into accessible and didactic language, with the aim of facilitating the assimilation and practical application of the information. To guarantee the e-book's quality, accuracy and suitability, the project included a rigorous methodological validation process, in which judges who are experts in the field and representatives of the target audience evaluated the material, ensuring its reliability and relevance to the professional context. The results of this initiative show that the production and validation of the e-book resulted in an instructive and relevant resource that can contribute significantly to the continuing education of health professionals. By broadening the understanding of the relationship between intestinal dysbiosis and multiple associated clinical conditions, this educational material provides support for the early identification of related signs and symptoms, promoting an integrated and preventive approach to patient care. In this way, the importance of including intestinal health as an essential component in clinical practices is reinforced, encouraging the adoption of therapeutic and educational strategies aimed at maintaining the balance of the gut-brain axis, improving quality of life and health outcomes.