Exploring how gut bacteria affect brain function and behavior through GABA
Official title: Mapping the Impact of Gut Bacteria on Brain and Behaviour Through the Lens of GABA (GutBrainGABA)
Run by University of Reading · NCT05698862 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if a probiotic that helps produce GABA can improve brain function and behavior in people by comparing it to a placebo over 12 weeks.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 50 Years |
| Sex | Men only |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Reading Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Reading) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 21, 2022 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | January 26, 2023 |
| Trial ID | NCT05698862 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are healthy, right-handed, Caucasian males aged 18 to 50 with a BMI between 18.5 and 30 who have lived in the UK or Europe.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with neurological, developmental, or psychiatric conditions, or those with gut-related disorders, will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This interventional trial investigates the relationship between gut microbiota and brain function, focusing on the neurotransmitter GABA. Participants will undergo a double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover design over 12 weeks, involving both a probiotic supplement and a placebo. The study will assess changes in behavior and brain activity through various measures, including fecal, blood, and urine samples. The probiotic used is Lactobacillus brevis, known for its GABA production capabilities, and participants will be required to maintain a food diary and adhere to supplement intake.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance our understanding of how gut health influences mental well-being and behavior.
How similar studies have gone: While some studies have explored gut microbiota's impact on mental health, this specific approach focusing on GABA is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Male * Right-handed * Caucasian/White * Between 18 and 50 years of age * Grew up in the UK or other European country * Body Mass Index 18.5 to 30. Exclusion Criteria: * Use of antibiotics within the last 3 months * Use of protonic pump inhibitors (PPIs) within the last 3 months * Current or history of regular smoking within the last 6 months * Regular consumption of \>14 units of alcohol per week * Current use of psychotropic drugs for medicinal or recreational purposes * Current use of probiotic/prebiotic supplements * Current diagnosis of neurological, developmental or psychiatric condition * Current diagnosis of gut microbiota related conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease or irritable bowel syndrome
Where it's running
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University of Reading
Reading, United Kingdom Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Bhismadev Chakrabarti, PhD — University of Reading
- Study coordinator: Bhismadev chakrabarti, PhD
- Email: b.chakrabarti@reading.ac.uk
- Phone: +44 118 378 5551
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.