Recent studies deepen understanding of neurobiological processes. Duke University researchers identified a gut-brain communication mechanism where colonic neuropods detect bacterial flagellin protein, signaling appetite suppression via vagal neurons, offering implications for behavioral modulation. Additionally, new microscopy technology enables imaging of neurovascular coupling across the awake mouse cortex, advancing understanding of cerebral blood flow regulation connected to neural activity. These findings open pathways to novel therapeutic strategies targeting neural and gut microbiome interactions.