Scientists Find a Surprising New Way Stress Cascades From Brain to Body

A study in mice identified a direct brain-gut-bone marrow pathway through which chronic stress suppresses two brain regions, depletes beneficial gut bacteria (Lactobacillus reuteri), and leads to immune cell deficiencies resembling premature aging—findings that could inspire new interventions including targeted probiotics and non-invasive brain stimulation.

Study results are from mice models; translation to human applications and clinical effectiveness remain to be established.