Aging and the microbiome: implications for asthma in the elderly?
Sanjay H Chotirmall1, Conor M Burke
1Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore.
Expert Review of Respiratory Medicine
|January 14, 2015
Summary
Asthma in the elderly is complex, with aging potentially altering the airway microbiome. Further research is needed to understand the link between the
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Pulmonology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Asthma diagnosis and treatment in the elderly present unique clinical challenges.
- The 'asthma microbiome' concept is complex and further complicated by aging.
Discussion:
- Aging processes may influence the airway microbiome composition.
- Current evidence links airway microbiome variations to asthma, but this is not well-established for late-onset asthma.
Key Insights:
- The relationship between aging and the asthma microbiome requires further investigation.
- Emerging research connects microbes to fundamental physiological processes like aging.
Outlook:
- Understanding the interplay between aging, the microbiome, and late-onset asthma is crucial.
- Future research should consider these factors for improved elderly asthma management.
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