Gut Bacterium and Metabolite Linked to Delayed Aging in Mice

Study Identifies Gut Bacterium and Metabolite That May Slow Aging

A research team led by the China National Center for Bioinformation and the Chinese Academy of Sciences reports that the gut bacterium Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum (BP) and its metabolite 5-aminovaleric acid betaine (5-AVAB) can reduce several signs of aging in mice.

The study, published August 25, 2026 in Nature Aging, found that both BP and 5-AVAB improved memory, motor coordination, and mood-related behaviors in aged mice, while also reducing chronic low-grade inflammation in multiple organs.

Evidence From Human Cohorts and Mouse Experiments

The researchers analyzed gut microbiome data from Chinese aging cohorts and found that BP abundance declines sharply with age in both men and women, regardless of gut microbiome pattern.

Using a 'microbiome aging clock' called MicroAge, they observed that individuals with higher BP levels tended to have a younger biological age based on clinical health indicators. In mice, direct administration of BP or its metabolite 5-AVAB led to measurable improvements in physical and cognitive health.

Potential Implications for Metabolic Health

The findings suggest that restoring BP or supplementing 5-AVAB could be a strategy to support healthy aging and metabolic health, at least in preclinical models.

Chronic low-grade inflammation, sometimes called 'inflammaging,' is linked to both metabolic decline and age-related diseases. The observed reduction in inflammation across several organs in mice points to a possible mechanism by which gut microbes may influence metabolic health over time.

Limitations and Next Steps

The study's main findings are based on mouse experiments and observational data from human cohorts. While the association between BP and younger biological age was seen in people, the direct anti-aging effects of BP and 5-AVAB have only been tested in mice so far.

The researchers note that more studies are needed to determine if supplementing BP or 5-AVAB can safely and effectively promote healthy aging in humans. The decline of BP and 5-AVAB with age in people suggests a possible target, but clinical trials would be required to confirm benefits and safety.