Mitochondria are small structures inside our cells. One of their main functions is to produce the energy cells need to work.
But mitochondria do more than produce energy.
They also participate in metabolism, cellular signalling and the regulation of inflammation. Their function changes throughout life and is closely connected with the health of our cells.
Mitochondrial health means that mitochondria can perform these functions effectively and adapt to the changing needs of the cell.
What does the gut microbiome have to do with this?
Gut microorganisms produce many substances when they process nutrients. Some of these microbial metabolites can interact with mitochondria and influence their function.
Short-chain fatty acids are one example. They are produced when certain gut bacteria ferment dietary fibre. Other microbial metabolites are involved in metabolic and inflammatory pathways that can also affect mitochondrial activity.
The connection works across several biological systems.
The gut microbiome influences metabolism and immune signalling. Both are closely connected with mitochondrial function. Changes in microbial activity may therefore affect mitochondria directly through microbial metabolites or indirectly through metabolic and inflammatory pathways.
This becomes particularly relevant as we age.
Ageing is accompanied by changes in both the gut microbiome and mitochondrial function. Researchers are investigating whether changes in microbiome–mitochondria communication contribute to differences in how people age.
Much of this research is still developing. We cannot currently determine mitochondrial health from a microbiome test or assume that changing the microbiome will improve mitochondrial function.
But the connection is important.
It shows that the gut microbiome is part of a much larger biological network. Microbial activity in the intestine may influence processes occurring inside cells throughout the body.
Understanding this connection may provide new insights into metabolism, cellular health and healthy ageing.
