New ADM and University of Oxford study explores how probiotics affect mood and cognition in perimenopausal women

Global human and animal nutrition supplier ADM recently announced a new partnership with the University of Oxford to conduct a study on the gut microbiome and wellbeing in women during in early menopause, a November 5, 2025 press release announced.¹ Specifically, the research will focus on probiotics and their effects on the emotional and cognitive health of perimenopausal women.

Details of the upcoming research

The new study, which will be a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, aims to further the understanding of the effects of probiotics on changes of emotional and mental wellbeing through the gut microbiome during perimenopause (the transition into menopause). Its first participant has already been enrolled, and a total of 106 participants are expected. Recruitment will run until summer 2027. The trial will last eight weeks with headline results anticipated in 2028.

The probiotic used in the study will contain 14 live bacterial strains and is a mixture that has previously been studied for its effects on mood and cognition. Measurements will be taken to assess changes in emotional processing, cognitive function, subjective mood ratings, and fecal microbiome of the participants.

Emotional and cognitive wellness during menopause

Changes to emotional wellness and cognition are common occurrences during perimenopause, studies have noted. The press release references three studies in particular, one stating that compared to late menopausal years, women are two to five times more likely to experience a depressive disorder in perimenopause.² Additionally, a meta-analysis noted that menopause can be a time of increased vulnerability to cognitive decline and increased risk of depression.³ A narrative review also emphasized the potential link between hormonal changes during menopause and changes in cognition.⁴

Continued research on the gut microbiome

Previously, ADM had partnered with the University of Oxford in 2022. The clinical trial had used the same probiotic and assessed its effects on mood in adults who had self-reported low mood.⁵

"We are delighted to be partnering with the University of Oxford again, and to have initiated this study, which aims to fill a gap in knowledge about the role of the microbiome in menopause,” stated Richard Day, vice president of medical affairs R&D health and wellness at ADM, in the press release. “Better understanding this link could help lead to new interventions to alleviate what can be debilitating symptoms for perimenopausal and menopausal women."

"We and others have provided compelling evidence for the psychotropic effects of probiotics in humans, and recent studies have demonstrated that probiotics can ameliorate some symptoms of menopause in female volunteers,” added Professor Phil Burnet from the University of Oxford's Department of Psychiatry. “This new study aims to build on that growing body of evidence."

New ADM research facility for animal microbiomes

Earlier this year, ADM announced the opening of a new research and development facility for animal microbiome studies and products for pets, livestock, and aquaculture.⁵

The pre-clinical research will focus on biotics and fermentation-derived ingredients. “The center will deploy cutting-edge scientific and technological tools to increase our understanding of the role of the gut microbiome in broader pet and animal health, building on our existing work in both human and animal nutrition, and support our development of science-backed microbiome solutions to bring to market for our customer,” stated Dr. Nuria Miquel, senior vice president and chief science officer at ADM in a June press release. It represents a significant step forward in our purpose to advance animal wellness through science and innovation.”

The new 1,600 square meter facility is located in Switzerland.

References

1. ADM. ADM Partners with University of Oxford to Study Link Between Gut Microbiome and Emotional and Cognitive Wellbeing in Women During Early Menopause. November 5, 2025. https://www.adm.com/en-us/news/news-releases/2025/11/adm-partners-with-university-of-oxford-to-study-link-between-gut-microbiome-and-emotional-and-cognitive-wellbeing-in-women-during-early-menopause/ (accessed 2025-11-06).
2. Bromberger, JT.; Epperson, CN. Depression During and After the Perimenopause: Impact of Hormones, Genetics, and Environmental Determinants of Disease. Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America, 2018. 45(4). 663-678. DOI: 10.1016/j.ogc.2018.07.007.
3. Weber, MT.; Maki, PM.; McDermott, MP. Cognition and mood in perimenopause: A systematic review and meta-analysis. The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. 2014. 142. 90-98. DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2013.06.001.
4. Conde, DM.; Verdade, RC.; Valadares, ALR.; Mella, LFB.; Pedro, AO.; Costa-Paiva, L. Menopause and cognitive impairment: A narrative review of current knowledge. World J Psychiatr 2021; 11(8): 412-428. DOI: 10.5498/wjp.v11.i8.412
5. Colli. M. New R&D Center focused on animal health and wellness opened by ADM. July 21, 2025. https://www.nutritionaloutlook.com/view/new-r-d-center-focused-on-animal-health-and-wellness-opened-by-adm (accessed 2025-11-06).