This episode delves into the fascinating world of host-associated microbiotas with renowned scientist Dr. Eisen. His groundbreaking research uncovers how microbiotas guide the trajectory of developmental programs and influence social behavior.

Dr. Eisen's team discovered that the zebrafish microbiota is required for normal social behavior, revealing a molecular pathway that connects the microbiota, microglial remodeling of neural circuits, and social behavior. This exploration was conducted using the experimentally tractable model vertebrate, the zebrafish.

We discuss in depth how the microbiota restrains neurite complexity and targets forebrain neurons necessary for normal social behavior. We also delve into how the microbiota is crucial for localizing forebrain microglia, brain-resident phagocytes that remodel neuronal arbors.