Jeffrey Lackner’s study of IBS patients undertaking behavioral self-management may strengthen understanding of brain-gut connections.

Lackner Investigates Whether Brain Changes Affect Gut Microbiome

Jeffrey M. Lackner, PsyD, is leading a pilot study to determine whether behavioral self-management of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may lead to fundamental changes in the digestive system’s bacterial ecosystem.

“This is a unique opportunity to identify the physical basis for why behavioral treatments for IBS work. ” Jeffrey M. Lackner, PsyD Professor of medicine and director of the UB Behavioral Medicine Clinic

Research May Lead to Better IBS Treatments

“We believe that this research may lead to more focused and effective treatments for IBS and other medical disorders for which there is no satisfactory medical cure,” says Lackner, a professor of medicine and director of its Behavioral Medicine Clinic. “This is a unique opportunity to identify the physical basis for why behavioral treatments for IBS work.” “It can really help us unravel some of the mystery underlying brain-gut interactions as they relate to a major health problem like IBS,” he explains. Lackner is a faculty member in the Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition.

Brain-Gut-Microbiota Connection is ‘Two-Way Street’

Lackner’s pilot study will see if behavioral strategies that IBS patients use to reduce their gastrointestinal symptoms also lead to changes in the gut’s microbial composition. “We know that the gut microbiome can influence neural development, brain chemistry, mood, pain perception and how the stress system responds,” says Lackner. Research has shown that manipulation of the gut microbiota with probiotics can change the way the brain responds to the environment. Lackner and his colleagues believe that because the brain-gut-microbiota connection is a “two-way street,” brain-directed treatments like cognitive behavior therapy may reduce GI symptoms by altering the gut microbiota. Study participants will collect stool samples at home, before and after treatment, and track their GI symptoms and well-being.

Working with Patients from Large Multicenter Study