This paper presents a compelling argument that the key to modestly slowing aging lies in reversing age-related changes in the diverse microbial populations within the gut microbiome. As the gut microbiome changes with age, it triggers chronic inflammation and reduces the supply of essential metabolites for tissue function. The evidence from human and animal studies over the past decade suggests that the gut microbiome plays a significant role in long-term health, comparable to the impact of diet and exercise choices.
Aging is a complex physiological process involving the progressive deterioration of body cells, tissues, and organs over time, leading to an increased risk of disease and mortality. The intestinal microbiota plays a crucial role in maintaining the dynamic balance of the host, and research on the communication networks like the brain-gut axis offers promising avenues for understanding human diseases. Additionally, the intestinal microbiota is closely linked to the aging process.
Both the intestinal microbiota and aging are intricately connected subjects. Significant changes occur in the human intestinal microbiota during the aging process, showing a close association with aging. While the causal relationship between intestinal microbiota and aging is still debated, the evidence suggests that they evolve together and influence each other. Exploring aging through the lens of the gut microbiota holds promise, whether it’s to target the microbiota for intervention or to uncover the underlying aging mechanisms.
Interventions to delay aging primarily target the drivers of aging. Animal studies have shown that aging can be delayed through fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), probiotics, dietary changes, and other gut microbiota regulations. However, identifying the specific microbial characteristics related to delayed aging and youth preservation requires in-depth analysis of related experimental results.
Link: https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2023.1268142
