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Human oral microbiome in aging: A systematic review
Elena Carbone1, Elisa Fabrizi2, Roberto Rivabene3
1Department of Neuroscience, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome 00161, Italy; Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari 720121, Italy; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology "Vittorio Erspamer", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome 00185, Italy.
Mechanisms of Ageing and Development
|June 5, 2025
Summary
The aging human oral microbiome shows increased periodontal pathogens and decreased bacterial diversity. Further research is needed to understand microbiome changes and their impact on aging and health.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Gerontology
- Oral Health
Background:
- Global population aging increases focus on chronic non-communicable diseases.
- Traditional risk factors include diet, exercise, and lifestyle.
- Emerging research explores the oral microbiome's role in health and disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the association between the human oral microbiome and aging.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase.
- Included 6 studies from 3490 records.
- Qualitative assessment using the Revised Risk of Bias Assessment Tool.
Main Results:
- Oral microbiome composition shows similarity across age groups.
- Increased presence of periodontal pathogens observed in older individuals.
- Decreased bacterial species richness and alpha-diversity with advancing age.
Conclusions:
- Aging is associated with specific changes in the oral microbiome, including increased pathogens and reduced diversity.
- Further research is necessary to address confounding factors, sample size, and gender differences.
- Elucidating the role of oral microbiome alterations in general health requires more investigation.
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