Inflammaging and microbiota: the intersection of aging, inflammation, and gut health
Abstract
Inflammaging, characterized by chronic, low-grade inflammation associated with aging, is a key contributor to age-related diseases, including cardiovascular disorders, neurodegenerative conditions, and metabolic syndromes. The intricate interplay between inflammaging and the human microbiota—a diverse ecosystem of microorganisms regulating immune, metabolic, and neurological functions—is crucial in understanding these processes. Aging leads to significant shifts in microbiota composition, resulting in dysbiosis, which fosters pro-inflammatory states and systemic inflammation. Age-related changes in the gut microbiota and microbial metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids and secondary bile acids, influence inflammation through pathways like Toll-like receptor signaling and cytokine production. Microbial dysbiosis impacts immune responses and gut barrier integrity, contributing to inflammaging and its associated pathologies. Interventions targeting gut health, including dietary modifications, probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, offer potential strategies to mitigate these effects. Advances in bioinformatics and microbiota research enable the development of targeted treatments aimed at improving longevity and reducing chronic inflammation. Intestinal epithelial cells play a central role as physical and antimicrobial barriers, while also mediating microbiota-host immune signaling. Aging-related changes to intestinal epithelial cells, microbiota composition, and immune function disrupt immune homeostasis and exacerbate inflammaging. Environmental factors, including diet and medications, further influence gut microbiota and immune function, either preventing or promoting inflammaging. Lifestyle and pharmacological interventions are suggested to promote healthy aging and reduce the adverse effects of chronic inflammation.
Keywords: Aging, inflammation, dysbiosis, fecal microbiota transplantation