Aggression is a complex psychological program that is influenced by genetics, environment, and psychological history. Research has shown that the hormonal levels in the body and the development of the brain can be major predictors of aggression. This review highlights recent studies that have connected the gut microbiome to alterations in hormones and brain development and how this can impact aggression. This paper also provides a systematic review on studies that directly assess the connection between the gut microbiome and aggression and reviews these connections in relation to age. We conclude with future directions that are needed to further determine the link between the microbiome and aggression among adolescents.
Keywords: age; aggression; brain development; microbiome; serotonin; testosterone.
© The Author(s) 2023. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of FEMS.