Watson Lecture - Sarkis Mazmanian: Trust Your Gut: Microbiome Influences on Brain Health and Disease

Sarkis Mazmanian, Luis B. and Nelly Soux professor of microbiology; Merkin Institute Professor Registration opens October 21, 2026!Trust Your Gut: Microbiome Influences on Brain Health and DiseaseAbout the TalkWhile the brain receives visual, auditory, olfactory, and other sensory information, the vast majority of molecular input to the brain comes from our gastrointestinal tract. Rather than being isolated, the brain is in constant communication with the gut via neuronal connections, the immune system, or ingested molecules. Remarkably, many molecules produced by gut bacteria of the human microbiome can be found in the brain. In this talk, Sarkis Mazmanian, the Luis B. & Nelly Soux Professor of Microbiology and a Merkin Institute Professor will share his laboratory's work on the fascinating and enigmatic gut–brain connection and its impacts on behavior and brain function. Harnessing the link between gut bacteria to the brain may uncover causes for disorders ranging from autism to Parkinson's disease, and it may also enable revolutionary therapies based on entirely novel biological principles.Evening Schedule6 p.m. — Activities and music. Food, drinks, and books available for purchase.7 p.m. — Doors open.7:30 p.m. — Talk and Q&A.8:30 p.m. — Post-talk concessions and conversation.The live event is in-person and a recording will be made available on our Youtube channel.About the SeriesFor more than 100 years, the Watson Lectures have brought the wonder of Caltech research and discovery to the public.Free and open to the public, the Watson Lecture Series offers a unique and accessible opportunity to learn more about cutting-edge science directly from Caltech's premier researchers. Come early to mingle with your neighbors over food, drink and music, as well as interactive displays related to the evening's topic. Then head inside to hear a stimulating talk and stay to ask your burning questions.Many past Watson Lectures are available on Caltech's YouTube channel.