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Updated: Jul 23, 2025

Imaging and Quantifying Mitochondrial Morphology in C. elegans During Aging
Published on: January 17, 2025
Talk to Me-Interplay between Mitochondria and Microbiota in Aging
Kristina Endres1, Kristina Friedland2
1Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, 55131 Mainz, Germany.
Abstract:
The existence of mitochondria in eukaryotic host cells as a remnant of former microbial organisms has been widely accepted, as has their fundamental role in several diseases and physiological aging. In recent years, it has become clear that the health, aging, and life span of multicellular hosts are also highly dependent on the still-residing microbiota, e.g., those within the intestinal system. Due to the common evolutionary origin of mitochondria and these microbial commensals, it is intriguing to investigate if there might be a crosstalk based on preserved common properties. In the light of rising knowledge on the gut-brain axis, such crosstalk might severely affect brain homeostasis in aging, as neuronal tissue has a high energy demand and low tolerance for according functional decline. In this review, we summarize what is known about the impact of both mitochondria and the microbiome on the host's aging process and what is known about the aging of both entities. For a long time, bacteria were assumed to be immortal; however, recent evidence indicates their aging and similar observations have been made for mitochondria. Finally, we present pathways by which mitochondria are affected by microbiota and give information about therapeutic anti-aging approaches that are based on current knowledge.
Insights
Mitochondria and the gut microbiome influence host aging. This review explores their aging processes, their interactions, and potential anti-aging therapies targeting this crosstalk.
Area of Science:
- Cellular Biology
- Microbiology
- Aging Research
Background:
- Mitochondria, remnants of ancient microbes, are crucial in disease and aging.
- The host microbiome, particularly in the gut, significantly impacts health, lifespan, and aging.
- Both mitochondria and microbes share common evolutionary origins, suggesting potential interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the impact of mitochondria and the microbiome on host aging.
- To examine the aging processes of both mitochondria and microbes.
- To explore the crosstalk between mitochondria and the microbiome and its effect on aging.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research on mitochondria, microbiome, and aging.
- Analysis of studies investigating the interaction between mitochondria and gut microbiota.
- Synthesis of information on therapeutic strategies targeting mitochondrial and microbial aging.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests both mitochondria and microbes age, contrary to previous assumptions.
- Mitochondria are influenced by the microbiome, impacting host aging.
- The gut-brain axis is a key area where this crosstalk may affect brain homeostasis.
Conclusions:
- Mitochondrial and microbial aging are interconnected and influence host aging.
- Understanding this crosstalk offers potential for novel anti-aging interventions.
- Further research into therapeutic approaches targeting mitochondria-microbiome interactions is warranted.
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