Exogenous microbiota-derived metabolite trimethylamine N-oxide treatment alters social behaviors: Involvement of hippocampal metabolic adaptation.

Increasing evidence indicates that gut microbiota and its metabolites can influence the brain function and the related behaviors. Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), an indirect metabolite of gut microbiota, has been linked to aging, cognitive impairment, and many brain disorders. However, the potential effects of TMAO on social behaviors remain elusive.

Long-lasting effects of postweaning sodium butyrate exposure on social behaviors in adult mice.

Background: The function of gut microbiota as its role in normal physiology and involvement in brain function has gained a great deal of attention. The potential long-lasting effects of postweaning sodium butyrate (SB) exposure on social behaviors are still unknown; however it acts as one of the metabolites of gut microbiota.

Methods: Male mice (24-day old) were exposed to SB through drinking water for 21 continuous days.