T Cells Found Living in Healthy Brains
A new study published in Nature uncovers a surprising connection between your gut, immune system, and brain, showing that T cells, long thought to be absent from healthy brains, actually live in specific brain regions and may influence your behavior.
Here’s what researchers found:
T cells were discovered in the subfornical organ, a part of the brain that helps regulate thirst and hunger, marking the first time immune cells have been observed in this region.
These brain-resident T cells originate in the gut and fat tissue, revealing a new immune communication pathway between the gut microbiome and the brain.
When scientists removed these cells in mice, the animals showed changes in food-seeking behavior, suggesting that immune cells might help the brain translate body signals into decisions.
This study reshapes our understanding of the gut–brain connection, highlighting that immune activity plays a bigger role in brain function than we thought.
Quick Tip: Want to support your gut-brain health? Focus on fiber-rich, whole-food meals that help maintain a healthy microbiome, and your brain just might thank you.
Taking care of your brain starts with small, consistent choices.
