Selank Restores Gut Microbiota Balance in Rats Under Chronic Stress

Chronic stress, such as restraint stress, is a well-known disruptor of the delicate balance of the gut microbiota, leading to an imbalance known as dysbiosis. This condition is characterized by a decrease in beneficial bacteria and an increase in potentially harmful opportunistic microorganisms, which can negatively impact overall health and immune function. This study aimed to investigate whether the anxiolytic peptide Selank could mitigate these stress-induced changes in the colon microbiota.

The study revealed that chronic restraint stress significantly altered the colon microbiota, leading to a notable decrease in the content of obligate microflora and a corresponding increase in opportunistic microorganisms. This shift indicates a clear state of dysbiosis induced by stress. Across all tested doses (80 µg/kg, 250 µg/kg, and 750 µg/kg), Selank treatment effectively counteracted these negative changes. > Selank successfully restored the intestinal microbiota, bringing the composition of both obligate and opportunistic microflora closer to a balanced state. The researchers hypothesize that this restorative effect is mediated through both central (neurotropic) and peripheral (immunotropic) mechanisms, suggesting a multifaceted action of the peptide.