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Microbiome-Metabolomics Reveals the Bidirectional Associations Between Aging and Depression
Weiheng Li1,2,3, Fuxiao Wei1,2,3, Huanle Liu1,2,3
1Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006 Shanxi China.
Indian Journal of Microbiology
|February 19, 2026
Summary
Aging and depression share common gut microbiome and metabolite changes, influencing behavior and gastrointestinal function. This study reveals bidirectional links between aging and depression via metabolomics and microbiome analysis.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology and Psychiatry
- Metabolomics and Microbiome Research
Background:
- Aging increases depression susceptibility, while depression accelerates aging.
- The bidirectional relationship between aging and depression requires deeper investigation.
- Understanding shared mechanisms is crucial for effective therapeutic strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the underlying mechanisms of bidirectional associations between aging and depression.
- To investigate shared changes in metabolome and microbiome profiles in aging and depression models.
- To elucidate the multi-level connections between aging, depression, and physiological functions.
Main Methods:
- Utilized aging and depression rat models.
- Assessed behavioral changes including autonomous activities and spatial memory.
- Analyzed gut microbiome using 16S rRNA sequencing and gut metabolites via 1H-NMR.
Main Results:
- Both aging and depression impaired autonomous activities, spatial memory, and gastrointestinal functions.
- Common fecal metabolites (e.g., valine, propionate) and decreased Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio were observed.
- Specific metabolites (e.g., proline) correlated with bacterial species (e.g., Lactobacillus, Corynebacterium), linking microbial and metabolic changes.
Conclusions:
- Aging and depression exhibit bidirectional associations mediated by shared gut microbiome and metabolic alterations.
- These changes impact physiological functions and behaviors, highlighting multi-level interactions.
- Findings offer novel insights for clinical interventions targeting co-existing aging and depression.
Keywords:
AgingBidirectional associationsDepressionFecal metabolomeGastrointestinal functionsGut microbiotaMore Related Videos
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