There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that the composition of the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in long-term health, aging, and age-related diseases. Advances in 16S rRNA sequencing have allowed researchers to study changes in the gut microbiome with age and its correlation with specific age-related diseases. The next frontier involves developing strategies to permanently alter the gut microbiome, such as fecal microbiota transplantation, with precise control over outcomes.
Recent molecular biological techniques and next-generation sequencing have provided insights into the composition and function of the gut microbiome. Studies on healthy elderly individuals have revealed alterations in the gut microbiome that can impact age-related disorders. Aging disrupts the balance and functionality of the gut microbiome, leading to inflammatory processes and reduced production of beneficial metabolites, hastening senescence.
Advancements in various omics fields have shed light on host-microbe interactions and their impact on aging. Enrichment of specific taxa like Bifidobacterium, Christensenellaceae, and Akkermansia has been linked to longevity and improved quality of life in older age. Techniques like fecal microbiome transplantation and probiotic treatment have been employed to enhance the gut microbiome for healthy aging, potentially mitigating age-related issues such as sarcopenia.
Research indicates that restoring intestinal permeability through fecal microbiota transplantation in the elderly may hold promise for regenerative medicine, particularly in stem cell production. Further exploration is needed to determine if transferring microbiota from young to old individuals can enhance stem cell function and improve lifespan. Understanding the interaction between intestinal stem cells and the microbiome is crucial for developing therapeutic interventions to extend lifespan and address age-related disorders.
