A recent study analyzing the gut microbiomes of over 200 octogenarians revealed a significant decline in bacterial diversity with age. However, researchers discovered an unexpected adaptive mechanism that may contribute to healthier ageing in older individuals.
Scientists found that certain bacterial species, such as Alistipes and Bacteroides, increase in abundance and produce butyrate through alternative metabolic pathways, compensating for the decline in F. prausnitzii. This finding suggests that gut bacteria play a crucial role in maintaining health with age.
The study also identified potential biomarkers for ageing-related health conditions, including Parabacteroides goldsteinii, which is linked to fasting blood glucose levels, and Streptococcus parasanguinis and Bacteroides coprocola, associated with serum Vitamin B12 levels. These discoveries could help identify individuals at risk of age-related diseases.
As a result, researchers are now focusing on further investigating the identified connections between gut bacteria, healthy ageing, and related health conditions.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.in/science/health/news/heres-what-your-gut-microbes-can-tell-you-about-how-you-will-age/articleshow/115084479.cms