Sex-Specific Modulation of Gut Microbiota by Early Life Stress: Long-Term Dynamic Impact on Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Adult Mice

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a prevalent functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by chronic abdominal pain, altered bowel habits, and visceral hypersensitivity. Despite its significant impact on quality of life, its etiology remains poorly understood. Early life stress (ELS) is a key predisposing factor for IBS, but how ELS modulates gut microbiota and contributes to IBS pathogenesis is unclear. Additionally, sex-specific differences in IBS prevalence and severity suggest a potential role for gut microbiota in mediating these variations, warranting further investigation.