Multi-omics analysis reveals the host-microbe interactions in aged rhesus macaques.

Area of Science:

• Aging research
• Microbiome studies
• Non-human primate models

Background:

• Aging is a complex process impacting animal health.
• Multi-omics analysis is a powerful tool in biology.
• Comprehensive aging changes in non-human primates require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore aging-related host-microbe interactions in Chinese rhesus macaques (CRs).
• To assess the utility of multi-omics analysis in understanding primate aging.

Main Methods:

• Multi-omics analysis (metabolomics, transcriptomics, microbiome sequencing).
• Comparison of oral and gut microbiomes between young and aged CRs.
• Analysis of host-microbe interactions and metabolic pathways.

Main Results:

• Significant alterations in oral and gut microbiomes of aged CRs, with reduced probiotics and increased pathogens.
• Decreased abundance of Lactobacillus and plasma aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) ligands in aged CRs.
• Elevated levels of free fatty acids, acyl carnitines, and other metabolites linked to metabolic dysfunction and cardiovascular disease.

Conclusions:

• Aged CRs exhibit multiple metabolic and immunological issues, alongside oral and gut diseases.
• Tryptophan metabolism is crucial for maintaining physiological health in aged CRs.
• Multi-omics analysis is valuable for studying host-microbe interactions in non-human primates and can inform evolutionary research.