Mendelian randomization analyses reveal causal relationships between the human microbiome and longevity

Area of Science:

• Microbiome research
• Genetics
• Longevity studies

Background:

• Emerging evidence links the human microbiome, particularly gut bacteria, to longevity.
• However, the causal relationships between specific microbes and lifespan remain largely undetermined.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the causal associations between gut and oral microbiota and human longevity.
• To explore bidirectional relationships using Mendelian randomization.

Main Methods:

• Utilized bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR).
• Employed genome-wide association studies (GWAS) summary statistics for microbiome data (4D-SZ cohort) and longevity (CLHLS cohort).

Main Results:

• Certain gut bacteria (e.g., Coriobacteriaceae, Lactobacillus amylovorus) positively correlated with longevity.
• Other gut microbes (e.g., Fusobacterium nucleatum, Streptococcus) showed negative associations.
• Genetically longevous individuals had altered abundances of Prevotella, Paraprevotella, Bacteroides, and Fusobacterium.
• Identified links between oral microbiome and longevity, with centenarians exhibiting lower gut microbial diversity.

Conclusions:

• Specific gut and oral bacteria play a significant role in human longevity.
• Microbial composition and diversity are crucial factors for a long and healthy life.
• Further research into microbial relocation and its impact on health is warranted.