Mixed
In centenarians, gut microbiota composition shifts significantly toward facultative anaerobes (Proteobacteria, Bacilli) and decreases in symbiotic anti-inflammatory species (Faecalibacterium prausnitzii), which is associated with a highly inflamed status (inflammageing).
This research highlights that extreme longevity is associated with a unique gut microbiome profile characterized by lower diversity and higher levels of certain opportunistic bacteria, alongside lower levels of beneficial anti-inflammatory species. For general health, maintaining a diverse microbiome rich in symbiotic bacteria (like Faecalibacterium) through diet and lifestyle may help mitigate age-related inflammation, though specific interventions for centenarians are not yet defined.
After 100 years of symbiotic association with the human host, the microbiota is characterized by a rearrangement in the Firmicutes population and an enrichment in facultative anaerobes, notably pathobionts. The presence of such a compromised microbiota in the centenarians is associated with an increased inflammatory status, also known as inflammageing... This may be explained by a remodelling of the centenarians’ microbiota, with a marked decrease in Faecalibacterium prauznitzii and relatives, symbiotic species with reported anti-inflammatory properties.
Why this rating
High-quality observational study using advanced molecular techniques (HITChip, qPCR) and rigorous statistical analysis, but lacks causal intervention.
Source
Through Ageing, and Beyond: Gut Microbiota and Inflammatory Status in Seniors and Centenarians
Elena Biagi et al. · PLoS ONE · 2010
DOI 10.1371/journal.pone.0010667
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