The Microbiome and Aging

The relationship between the gut microbiome and biological aging is complex and modulated by multiple factors. Some studies have recorded an overlap of microbiome alterations in biological aging and in multiple diseases, whereas others highlight the loss of specific youth-associated microbes with aging. Here we summarize the links between the human gut microbiome and health particularly in relation to aging. The limitations and challenges of microbiome studies in centenarians are examined. We also assess divergent viewpoints on the microbiome changes with chronological aging and biological aging, and provide a perspective on specific microbiome indices or metrics used by different groups to characterize the trajectory of the microbiome with age (accelerated or decelerated or normal). Finally, we address microbiome-targeted interventions for older people including the promise of interventions that are more personalized and more precise.