<i>Lactobacillus</i> and <i>Bifidobacterium</i> Improves Physiological Function and Cognitive Ability in Aged Mice by the Regulation of Gut Microbiota

Abstract

SCOPE: Age-related degeneration is associated with imbalances of gut microbiota and its related immune system, thus gut microbiota dysbiosis is considered to be a key target to improve senescence. The potential roles of probiotics on physiological function and cognitive ability in aged mice are investigated in this study. METHODS AND RESULTS: Lactobacillus casei LC122 or Bifidobacterium longum BL986, are orally administrated for 12 weeks, and the anti-aging effects, as well as the composition and function of gut microbiota, are investigated in aged mice. Probiotics supplementation ameliorates hepatic lipid accumulation, enhances muscle strength and function, attenuates oxidative stress and inflammation in peripheral tissues, and improves gut barrier function. These results are associated with improved learning and memory ability as assessed by behavioral tests and upregulation of neurodegenerative and neurotrophic factors expressions in hippocampus. Moreover, the diversity and composition of gut microbiota are altered in aged mice, and both probiotics treatment display distinguished features of gut microbiota. Comparisons of two probiotic strains reveal significant differences in the taxa at family and genus level, leading to the functional profile change of the microbial community. CONCLUSION: L. casei LC122 and B. longum BL986 might be used as novel and promising anti-aging agents in human.