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Gut microbiota: The hidden hallmark of aging
Kimaya Kaushik1,2, Mihir Sharma1, Ritik Sharma1
11Faculty of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology, Shoolini University Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 173229, India.
Acta Microbiologica Et Immunologica Hungarica
|May 21, 2026
Summary
The gut microbiome significantly impacts aging and age-related diseases. This review explores the gut microbiome
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Microbiology
- Immunology
Background:
- Aging is a natural process characterized by accumulated changes, increasing disease susceptibility.
- The gut microbiota's role in aging is increasingly recognized but not fully understood.
- Existing research necessitates a comprehensive overview of the gut microbiome's influence on aging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a holistic review of the relationship between gut microbiome and aging.
- To explore the intricate mechanisms linking gut microbiota to aging processes.
- To advocate for the gut microbiome as a hallmark of aging and a target for interventions.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of aging hallmarks and gut microbiome evolution.
- Analysis of mechanisms including inflammaging, immunosenescence, gut-brain axis, and mitochondrial dysfunction.
- Examination of therapies such as fecal microbiota transplantation and gut modulation strategies.
Main Results:
- The gut microbiome undergoes significant changes throughout the lifespan.
- Factors like inflammaging, gut-brain axis, and nutrient imbalance are intricately linked to gut microbiota and aging.
- Emerging therapies show promise for regulating the gut microbiome to promote healthy aging.
Conclusions:
- The gut microbiome is a critical factor in the aging process.
- Targeting the gut microbiome offers a promising avenue for healthy aging interventions.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the gut microbiome's role as a hallmark of aging.
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