Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 13, 2026

Injections of Lipopolysaccharide into Mice to Mimic Entrance of Microbial-derived Products After Intestinal Barrier Breach
Published on: May 2, 2018
Drug-mediated disruption of the aging gut microbiota and mucosal immune system
Lia Totleben1, Joel Thomas1, Daniel Austin1
1Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Erie, PA, United States.
Abstract:
The human gut microbiota is comprised predominantly of bacteria, and also includes archaea, fungi, and viruses. The gastrointestinal epithelium, mucosal barrier, and mucosal immune system balance protection against infection at mucosal entry points with symbiosis and tolerance to non-harmful organisms and antigens. Aging is associated with notable changes in both gut microbiota and mucosal immunity, including reduced microbial diversity, increased proportion of pathobionts relative to commensals, immunosenescence, and chronic inflammation. These changes may disrupt gastrointestinal function and homeostasis and increase susceptibility to infection and inflammatory conditions. Multiple drug classes are also associated with disruption of the gut microbiota and mucosal immunity, including antibacterials, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), metformin, and steroidal and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents. This review describes the mechanisms by which these drugs affect the gut microbiota and mucosal immunity to provide perspective of the concurrent effects of drugs and age-related changes.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Pharmacokinetics in Geriatric Patients: Effect of Age on Drug Absorption
Factors Influencing Drug Absorption: Disease States and Pharmacology
Substances such as alcohol and specific drugs, including antineoplastics, can also negatively impact drug absorption. For instance,...
Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin...
Pharmacodynamics in Geriatric Patients: Effects of Age
Drug Dosing: Geriatric Patients
Drugs Affecting GI Tract Motility: Antimicrobials as Antidiarrheal Agents

