The gut microbiome in subclinical atherosclerosis: a population-based multiphenotype analysis

Area of Science:

• Microbiome research
• Vascular physiology
• Gerontology

Background:

• Altered gut microbiota is linked to vascular physiology and disease.
• Understanding the gut microbiota's role in subclinical vascular changes in the elderly is crucial.
• Lifestyle factors may influence gut microbiota composition and vascular health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of gut microbiota in vascular physiology in subclinical elderly individuals.
• To explore how lifestyle affects gut microbiota composition and its impact on vascular disease pathogenesis.
• To establish a phenotype-metagenomic association network in an elderly Chinese population.

Main Methods:

• A population-based fecal metagenomic study of 569 elderly, asymptomatic individuals in rural China.
• Construction of an association network using clinical measurements (arterial stiffness, carotid ultrasonography) and metagenomic data.
• Mediation analysis to assess the role of gut microbiota in lifestyle's effect on carotid atherosclerosis.

Main Results:

• Carotid arterial atherosclerosis indices, including intima-media thickness (IMT), were significantly associated with lifestyle factors.
• Increased fruit/vegetable intake and exercise reduced carotid atherosclerosis via specific gut microbes (Alistepes, Oligella, Prevotella).
• Faecalicatena showed a protective effect, while Libanicoccus was associated with increased IMT; loss of anti-inflammatory function noted in subjects with higher IMT.

Conclusions:

• A phenotype-metagenomic association network was established, demonstrating the mediating effect of gut microbiota on carotid artery atherosclerosis.
• Findings suggest potential therapeutic and preventive applications of microbiota modulation for vascular diseases.
• Lifestyle interventions targeting gut microbiota may be beneficial for vascular health in the elderly.