2'-Fucosyllactose (2'-FL): Gut Microbiota Modulation and Cognitive Benefits
Unlocking the cognitive potential through the power of human milk oligosaccharides and gut health.
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2'-Fucosyllactose
2'-Fucosyllactose (2'-FL) is a prominent human milk oligosaccharide (HMO) recognized for its significant role in infant development and health. Beyond its prebiotic effects on the gut microbiota, emerging research highlights its impact on cognitive function, primarily through the modulation of the gut-brain axis. Studies demonstrate that 2'-FL supplementation can enhance cognitive performance by positively altering gut microbial composition and influencing neurotransmitter pathways, particularly serotonin.
- 2'-FL supplementation promotes cognitive memory, as evidenced by improved performance in behavioral tests in animal models, suggesting a direct link between HMO intake and brain function.
- The gut-brain axis interaction is key to 2'-FL's effects; alterations in gut microbiota composition, such as increased Bacteroides and Lactobacillus genera, are crucial mediators of its cognitive benefits, supported by research on the gut-brain axis interaction.
- Elevated hippocampal levels of 5-HTP and 5-HT are observed with 2'-FL intake, indicating a pathway through which it may influence mood and cognition.
- 2'-FL impacts the serotonin pathway by modulating key enzymes: in vitro studies suggest it activates TPH and inhibits 5-HTPDC, fostering 5-HTP accumulation within gut microbes.
- Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) produced by gut bacteria may indirectly promote 5-HTP synthesis in intestinal cells, further supporting the complex mechanisms through which 2'-FL influences brain health.
Key Advantages
Enhanced Cognitive Function
Discover how 2'-FL supports improved learning and memory through the microbiota-gut-brain axis, a key area of focus in HMOs for cognitive health.
Gut Microbiota Optimization
Explore the science behind 2'-FL's ability to positively modulate the gut microbiome, fostering the growth of beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus, crucial for overall gut health.
Serotonin Pathway Support
Understand the mechanisms by which 2'-FL influences the serotonin pathway, potentially impacting mood and cognitive processes via its interaction with gut microbes.
Key Applications
Infant Nutrition
As a primary HMO, 2'-FL is vital for infant gut health and immune system development, supporting a microbiota similar to breastfed infants.
Dietary Supplements
Beyond infant formula, 2'-FL is explored for its benefits in general digestive health and its potential role in supporting cognitive function in broader populations.
Gut Health Research
The study of 2'-FL's impact on gut bacteria and their metabolites provides critical insights into managing gut dysbiosis and promoting a healthy gut environment.
Neuroscience and Cognitive Science
Investigating the link between 2'-FL, the gut-brain axis, and cognitive performance opens new avenues for understanding and potentially improving brain health through diet.
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