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Metformin Reduces Aging-Related Leaky Gut and Improves Cognitive Function by Beneficially Modulating Gut
Shokouh Ahmadi1, Atefeh Razazan1, Ravinder Nagpal1
1Department of Internal Medicine-Molecular Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
Summary
Metformin, an antidiabetic drug, reduces gut leakiness and inflammation in older obese mice by improving gut bacteria and increasing mucin production. This suggests metformin could treat aging-related gut issues, particularly in obese individuals on high-fat diets.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Gastroenterology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Aging is associated with increased low-grade inflammation, a risk factor for morbidities and mortalities.
- Gut dysbiosis and increased intestinal permeability ('leaky gut') are linked to inflammation in older adults.
- Current therapies do not address aging-related gut microbiome dysbiosis or leaky gut.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate metformin's effects on leaky gut and inflammation in aging.
- To explore the mechanisms by which metformin impacts gut health in older obese mice.
- To assess metformin's potential as a therapeutic strategy for aging-related gut dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- Utilized high-fat diet-induced obese older mouse models.
- Administered metformin to assess its impact on gut permeability and inflammation.
- Analyzed gut microbiota composition, goblet cell mass, mucin production, and Wnt signaling pathways.
Main Results:
- Metformin decreased leaky gut and inflammation in obese older mice.
- Metformin beneficially modulated the gut microbiota.
- Metformin increased goblet cell mass and mucin production by suppressing Wnt signaling, reducing gut leakiness and inflammation.
Conclusions:
- Metformin demonstrates potential in preventing and treating aging-related leaky gut and inflammation.
- Metformin's benefits are linked to positive modulation of gut microbiota, goblet cells, and mucin biology.
- Metformin may be a valuable therapeutic option for obese individuals and those with high-fat diets.
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