Gut microbiota modulation: a narrative review on a novel strategy for prevention and alleviation of ovarian aging Original paper
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
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Divine Aleru
I am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.
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Women’s Health
Women’s Health
Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.
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Microbes
Microbes
Microbes, short for microorganisms, are tiny living organisms that are ubiquitous in the environment, including on and inside the human body. They play a crucial role in human health and disease, functioning within complex ecosystems in various parts of the body, such as the skin, mouth, gut, and respiratory tract. The human microbiome, which is […]
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Divine Aleru
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Microbiome Signatures identifies and validates condition-specific microbiome shifts and interventions to accelerate clinical translation. Our multidisciplinary team supports clinicians, researchers, and innovators in turning microbiome science into actionable medicine.
Divine Aleru
What was studied?
This narrative review explores the connection between gut microbiota and ovarian aging, focusing on how modulation of the microbiome could offer a novel strategy for alleviating ovarian aging and preventing related disorders. The review investigates how the gut microbiota influences ovarian functions such as follicular development, oocyte maturation, and ovulation, and examines alterations in gut microbiota composition with aging, including its potential role in conditions like premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). Furthermore, the paper discusses interventions targeting gut microbiota, such as fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) and probiotic therapies, as potential strategies for delaying ovarian aging.
Who was studied?
The review includes data from studies on both human and animal models, including premenopausal and postmenopausal women, as well as murine and other species models. The review primarily focuses on women experiencing ovarian aging, such as those in menopause or with POI, and incorporates findings from animal studies investigating the relationship between gut microbiota composition and ovarian function.
Most important findings
The review reveals that ovarian aging is influenced by changes in the gut microbiota, with distinct differences in microbial composition observed in postmenopausal women compared to premenopausal women. Specifically, postmenopausal women exhibit lower gut microbiome diversity and altered abundances of microbial taxa, such as an increase in Bacteroides and a decrease in Firmicutes. The study also highlights the role of specific gut bacteria in regulating ovarian function. For example, the gut microbiota’s production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), such as butyrate, influences ovarian function by modulating hormonal levels and immune responses. Furthermore, interventions like FMT and probiotics have shown potential in restoring a “younger-like” microbial profile and improving ovarian function in animal models, suggesting a promising therapeutic approach for human ovarian aging.
Key implications
This review underscores the potential for gut microbiota modulation as a novel strategy to combat ovarian aging and related reproductive health issues. The evidence linking gut microbiota dysbiosis to ovarian dysfunction highlights a new avenue for therapeutic interventions, particularly through FMT or probiotics, which could help preserve ovarian function, delay menopause, and improve fertility. However, further research, particularly human clinical trials, is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and efficacy of these microbiome-based interventions for ovarian aging.
Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT)
Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT) involves transferring fecal bacteria from a healthy donor to a patient to restore microbiome balance.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms that offer significant health benefits when administered in adequate amounts. They primarily work by modulating the gut microbiome, supporting a balanced microbial ecosystem. Probiotics have been shown to improve gut health, modulate immune responses, and even influence metabolic and mental health disorders. With growing evidence supporting their therapeutic potential, probiotics are increasingly recognized for their role in treating conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD), and even mental health conditions like depression and anxiety through their impact on the gut-brain axis.
Menopause
Menopause impacts many aspects of health, including the gut microbiome, weight management, and hormone balance. Diet, probiotics, intermittent fasting, and HRT offer effective management strategies.