Gut Bacteria Contribute Vascular Aging
Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder have published a new study that shows how gut bacteria can increase cardiovascular disease risk by contributing to blood vessel stiffening as we age. This is the first study to show that changes in the gut microbiome can promote vascular ageing and harm health.
Researchers treated young and older mice in groups with antibiotics known to kill gut bacteria. The researchers then examined the vascular system of the mice. They focused on the endothelium (lining of blood vessels) and stiffness of their large arteries. Researchers also measured biomarkers in blood, such as free radicals and antioxidants. They also looked at pro-inflammatory cytokines and nitric dioxide.
Researchers re-measured biomarkers after 3-4 weeks and examined the vascular system. The young mice showed no changes, but the older mice experienced significant improvements in vascular health as well as biomarkers. Researchers note that treatment suppressed microbiome in the aged mice, improving their health. They concluded that the microbiome in old mice contributed to vascular ageing.
Source:
https://www.leafscience.org/gut-bacteria-contribute-to-vascular-aging/
