Learning Center
Gut-Brain & Microbiome Learning Center
Understand the Science. Explore the Questions. Find Your Next Step.
The gut and brain are connected through complex biological systems that researchers continue to study. Explore the microbiome, gut-brain communication, the vagus nerve, immune signaling, nutrition and emerging areas of research through this guided NVL learning experience.
Where should I start?
Already familiar with the basics?
Choose any topic below. Research continues to explore important questions — understanding the science can help families ask better ones.
The 12-Part Learning Path
Each module builds on the one before it. All twelve modules are available — start at the beginning or choose the topic you need.
- Module 01
Start Here: Understanding the Gut-Brain Connection
An introduction to the two-way communication between the digestive system and the nervous system, with a guided video library.
Available · Start - Module 02
Meet the Gut Microbiome
An introduction to the microorganisms living in the digestive tract and why researchers study them.
Available · Start - Module 03
How the Gut and Brain Communicate
An overview of the major communication pathways researchers study.
Available · Start - Module 04
The Vagus Nerve
An introduction to the vagus nerve and its role in gut-brain communication.
Available · Start - Module 05
The Gut Barrier
An introduction to intestinal barrier function and why permeability is an area of study.
Available · Start - Module 06
Immune Signaling & Inflammation
An introduction to interactions among the immune system, the gut and the nervous system.
Available · Start - Module 07
Microbial Metabolites
An introduction to substances produced by gut microorganisms and why they are studied.
Available · Start - Module 08
Neurotransmitters & the Gut
A careful look at signaling molecules such as serotonin and GABA, and the limits of simple explanations.
Available · Start - Module 09
Nutrition & the Microbiome
An educational introduction to relationships researchers study among diet, nutrition and microbial communities.
Available · Start - Module 10
Why Researchers Study the Microbiome in Autism
An overview of why the microbiome, gastrointestinal health and the gut-brain axis are areas of autism research.
Available · Start - Module 11
What the Research Shows — and What It Doesn't
How to read emerging research: association versus causation, study design, sample size and replication.
Available · Start - Module 12
Explore the Research
Connects you to the NVL Research & Education Center, the gut-brain video library and related educational material.
Available · Start
How Information Is Presented Here
Throughout the Learning Center, information is labeled so it is clear what is established and what is still being investigated.
- What We Know
- Well-established, widely accepted background information.
- What Research Suggests
- Findings that point in a direction but are not settled.
- What Researchers Are Studying
- Open questions and active areas of investigation.
- What Remains Uncertain
- Where evidence is limited, mixed or not yet available.
This Learning Center is educational. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, and nothing here should replace guidance from your own healthcare professionals.
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