Newly discovered ‘sixth sense’ links gut microbes to the brain in real time
Peer-Reviewed Publication
Updates every hour. Last Updated: 21-Dec-2025 06:11 ET (21-Dec-2025 11:11 GMT/UTC)
In a breakthrough that reimagines the way the gut and brain communication, researchers have uncovered what they call a “neurobiotic sense,” a newly identified system that lets the brain respond in real time to signals from microbes living in our gut.
Inspired by a hitchhiking fish that uses a specialized suction organ to latch onto other marine animals, MIT engineers designed a mechanical adhesive device that attaches to soft, slippery surfaces and remains there for days or weeks. The device could be used to deliver drugs in the GI tract or monitor aquatic environments.