세미나

In this talk, I will explore the emerging role of gut microbiota-generated metabolites (GMGMs) as critical mediators of host physiology and aging. Urolithin A (UA), the first-in-class human mitophagy activator, has demonstrated significant benefits in muscle function, as evidenced by two independent double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials published in JAMA Network Open and Cell Reports Medicine (2022). Encouraged by UA’s success, we have identified additional GMGMs with potential longevity-enhancing properties. Our research revealed that metabolites secreted by Lactobacillus (LAB) extend lifespan in model organisms, independent of live bacterial supplementation. Through metabolomic profiling, we identified a key LAB-derived small molecule, PL, which activates the SKN-1/NRF2 pathway to promote stress resilience and healthspan extension. Notably, human plasma levels of PL are significantly reduced in sarcopenic patients compared to age-matched controls, suggesting a conserved role in aging-related muscle decline. These findings position microbial metabolites as promising interventional targets for healthy aging, bridging mechanistic insights from nematodes to human physiology (Nature Communications, 2024).

For your healthy aging, you need guts—both literally and figuratively.