On the Gut Microbiome as a Central Player in Aging: Mechanisms and Health Outcomes

Abstract The work explores the mechanisms by which the gut microbiome influences human aging and associated diseases. We examine age-related changes in the composition of the microbiota and their effects on inflammation, immune response, and intestinal-barrier permeability. Special attention is given to the pathogenic interactions between the gut microbiota and the development of cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurodegenerative diseases. The role of microbiome imbalance, known as dysbiosis, is highlighted as one of the key mechanisms accelerating the aging process. The review provides a comprehensive analysis of recent studies that demonstrate the impact of microbial metabolites on various systems of the body through the “gut—brain,” “gut—cardiovascular,” and “gut–endocrine brain” axes.