Profiles of women in science: Carmen Sandi, President of the Federation of European Neuroscience Societies

Neuroinflammation and the Kynurenine Pathway in CNS Disease: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications

“…Importantly, the brain–gut–microbiota axis represents the complex interconnected crosstalk of the microbiome, gastrointestinal and central nervous system. The bacteria in the gut produce and release GABA, the inhibitory neurotransmitter that is involved in the pathophysiology of mood disorders and increase tryptophan availability for serotonin production [ 88 ]. In a cohort of 110 patients suffering from MDD, treatment with probiotics was associated with decreased serum K/T ratio and improvement in depression scores [ 293 ].…”

“…Trp is the precursor for the synthesis of both serotonin and kynurenine. An emerging literature implicates dysregulation of gut microbiota and the related gastro-enteric nervous system in the pathology of the highly co-morbid irritable bowel syndrome and neuropsychiatric conditions depression, anxiety disorder and ASD [ 88 , 89 ]. In the gastrointestinal system (GI), commensal bacteria of the large intestine breakdown tryptophan and produce, several indoles and indole related compounds including kynurenines, melatonin and serotonin that are neuroactive.…”

Editorial Comment: Gender diversity in neuroscience: Ongoing challenges for a field in flux

“…Our current FENS president, Carmen Sandi of the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, stated: “If I had to give advice, I think that what is most important is to follow your vocation and your passion for science. Be internally motivated” (Wakim, Helmreich, & EJN, ).…”