Centenarians, individuals who reach the age of 100 or more, have always intrigued researchers and the public alike. The common belief that longevity is just a matter of luck is unsatisfying, leading to extensive studies on factors contributing to their long lives. One such area of focus is the gut microbiome’s influence on aging processes and longevity.
While centenarians may be frail and exhibit a high mortality rate, understanding the biological mechanisms behind their long life spans is crucial. The aging process, characterized by molecular damage accumulation, can be targeted with rejuvenation therapies. Successful rejuvenation will not result in the frailty seen in current centenarians. Therefore, it is vital to study models of successful biological aging, such as centenarians, to identify interventions for delaying age-related diseases.
The gut microbiota plays a significant role in metabolic regulation and aging, with direct links to factors like age and diet. However, there is a lack of comprehensive studies on the specific changes in the gut microbiome of centenarians that contribute to their longevity. Understanding these mechanisms could be crucial in predicting and preventing age-related chronic diseases. Research on the gut microbiota in centenarians is essential for identifying potential biomarkers and interventions for successful aging.
