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Daily intake of live microbes and cognitive function in older adults: the mediating role of mitochondrial dysfunction

Shuhua Fang1, Nian Yang1,2, Qing Zhao1,3

  • 1Department of Pharmacy, Nanjing Lishui People's Hospital, Zhongda Hospital Lishui Branch Southeast University, Nanjing, China.

International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition
|July 9, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Dietary intake of live microbes (DLM) is linked to better cognitive function in older adults. This may be partly mediated by reduced levels of methylmalonic acid (MMA), a marker of mitochondrial dysfunction.

Area of Science:

  • Gerontology
  • Neuroscience
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Cognitive decline is a significant concern in aging populations.
  • Mitochondrial dysfunction is implicated in age-related cognitive impairment.
  • Dietary interventions are being explored to support cognitive health in the elderly.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine the association between dietary intake of live microbes (DLM) and cognitive function in older adults.
  • To investigate the potential mediating role of mitochondrial dysfunction, specifically methylmalonic acid (MMA), in this relationship.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of data from 2,312 elderly participants in the NHANES (2010-2014) dataset.
  • Linear and logistic regression models to assess the relationship between DLM and cognitive scores (DSST, global cognitive score) and impairment.
  • Mediation analysis to evaluate the role of circulating MMA.

Main Results:

  • Higher DLM intake was positively associated with better DSST and global cognitive scores.
  • High DLM intake was a protective factor against cognitive impairment in the elderly.
  • Circulating MMA was negatively associated with high DLM intake and partially mediated the positive effects of DLM on cognitive function.

Conclusions:

  • Dietary intake of live microbes is associated with enhanced cognitive function in older adults.
  • This beneficial effect may be partly mediated by the reduction of methylmalonic acid, suggesting a link between gut microbes, mitochondrial health, and cognition.
  • Findings support the potential of DLM as a dietary strategy to support cognitive health in aging populations.
Keywords:
Live microbesNHANEScognitive functionmethylmalonic acidmitochondrial dysfunction

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