OBJECTIVE

To study the relationship of the composition of the intestinal microbiota with phenotypic age (PhenoAge) and cardiometabolic health.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The examination data of 29 male and female patients, aged 27 to 68 years, with no signs of exacerbation of chronic non-communicable diseases, were analyzed. Clinical, laboratory, and instrumental parameters were assessed: phenotypic age (PhenoAge) and biochemical markers. An integrative assessment of the intestinal microbial-tissue complex was conducted, including the study of microbiota profiles using the 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequence analysis.

RESULTS

It was found that the phenotypic age of the studied population was, on average, 8.5 years lower than the passport age, which correlated with specific microbial patterns. Key bacteria associated with the geroprotective effect were identified as Barnesiella spp. and Bacteroides eggerthii. In contrast, Vampirivibrionia and Dorea formicigenerans were linked to high levels of insulin resistance, inflammation, and thickening of the intima-media complex. The association of Vampirivibrionia with high levels of trimethylamine-N-oxide, a metabolite linked to aging, inflammation, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, has been demonstrated for the first time. In addition, the following bacteria, which are negatively associated with phenotypic age, were studied: Erysipelatoclostridium, Lachnospiraceae ND3007, and Blautia faecis. Additionally, a positive correlation was observed between phenotypic age and the Ruminococcaceae NK4A214 and Family XIII AD3011, suggesting their potential pathogenicity. The key role of zonulin as a marker of the intestinal barrier permeability was highlighted, and its correlation with opportunistic bacteria was demonstrated.

CONCLUSION

A retrospective study revealed the significant role of the intestinal microbiome in regulating phenotypic age and cardiometabolic health. Microbial profiles associated with geroprotection and the risk of age-associated diseases were determined. The results emphasize the need for microbiome profiling and detailed research to develop personalized approaches to therapy and prophylaxis.