Although further work is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms, results of the present study define clear paths forward for future research. In particular, it will be important to define how alterations in gut microbiota interact with cocaine treatment to modify the full transcriptome and protein expression in NAc and other important limbic reward structures. Additionally, future studies will include examination of the effect of altered gut microbiota on cocaine self-administration and reinstatement. Studies on probiotics, prebiotics, and bacterial metabolites can be utilized to determine how manipulations of the microbiome may reduce cocaine taking and seeking behaviors. While much remains to be examined, there is clearly tremendous potential for future translational studies in this emerging area of microbiota-gut-brain axis communication.
