< Back to previous page

Project

The Leuven Student Microbiome Project – a longitudinal analysis of gut microbiome predictors of depression and suicidality

Depression is a common condition associated with enormous burden for the individual and society. Still, the understanding of this disorder is far from complete. Recent animal research shows that the composition of our gut bacteria may influence how we feel and even on how we behave. In this unique project, a multidisciplinary team of psychologists, medical doctors, and microbiologists collaborate to investigate in thousands of college students what links exist between gut bacteria and depression, including suicidality. Our ultimate goal is to investigate whether gut bacterial composition can be used as a marker and predictor of sensitivity to depression and suicidality. As such, this project will tell to what extent we should interpret ‘gut feelings’ more literally in the future and if gut microbiota research can contribute to the understanding, treatment, and eventually prevention of depression in our society.
Date:1 Oct 2017 →  30 Sep 2021
Keywords:Microbioom, Darmflora, Depressie
Disciplines:Microbiology, Systems biology, Laboratory medicine