The Hallmarks of Aging describe biological processes that change as we age.
Research now suggests that the gut microbiome may interact with several of these processes.
Gut microorganisms produce metabolites and other substances that can travel beyond the intestine and interact with human cells.
Which processes may be affected?
Researchers are studying possible links between the gut microbiome and several Hallmarks of Aging.
Mitochondrial function: microbial metabolites may influence how mitochondria work and how cells produce and use energy.
DNA stability: some bacteria produce substances that can damage DNA. Much of this evidence still comes from experimental studies.
Epigenetic regulation: microbial metabolites may influence mechanisms that control gene activity, including histone modification and DNA methylation.
Cellular maintenance: microbial products may interact with autophagy and other processes that help cells remove damaged components.
Nutrient sensing and metabolism: the microbiome transforms nutrients into biologically active compounds. It may also influence metabolic and appetite signals.
Cellular senescence: researchers are investigating whether microbial products, including forms of vitamin K, may influence cellular senescence.
Inflammation: changes in the microbiome may interact with chronic low-grade inflammation associated with ageing, often called inflammaging.
These connections do not mean that the gut microbiome has been proven to control how quickly we age.
Some mechanisms have stronger evidence than others. Many still need confirmation in humans.
The important change in ageing research is the question being asked. Scientists are studying not only which bacteria are present, but also what they produce and how these substances interact with the biological processes of ageing.
