Oxidative stress bridges the gut microbiota and the occurrence of frailty syndrome

Abstract

The incidence of frailty gradually increases with age. This condition places a heavy burden on modern society, of which the aging population is increasing. Frailty is one of the most complicated clinical syndromes; thus, it is difficult to uncover its underlying mechanisms. Oxidative stress (OS) is involved in frailty in multiple ways. The association between the gut microbiota (GM) and frailty was recently reported. Herein, we propose that OS is involved in the association between the GM and the occurrence of frailty syndrome. An imbalance between oxidation and antioxidants can eventually lead to frailty, and the GM probably participates in this process through the production of reactive oxygen species. On the other hand, OS can disturb the GM. Such dysbiosis consequently induces or exacerbates tissue damage, leading to the occurrence of frailty syndrome. Finally, we discuss the possibility of improving frailty by intervening in the vicious cycle between the imbalance of OS and dysbiosis.

Microbial Composition and Stool Short Chain Fatty Acid Levels in Fibromyalgia

“…In particular, Eubacterium sp. Eligens , an SCFA-producing bacterium with anti-inflammatory ability [ 40 ], was significantly reduced in patients with FMS. Moreover, the reduced abundance of Prevotella , a propionate-producing bacterium associated with abdominal pain in the general population [ 41 ], also infers the potential role of bacteria-derived propionate in the pathogenesis of FMS.…”

The association between oxidative balance score and frailty in adults across a wide age spectrum: NHANES 2007–2018

“…These reports were consistent with our findings that the OBS, which represents antioxidant capacity, was strongly associated with a lower prevalence of frailty. Oxidative stress is considered to be a key biological mechanism in the pathogenesis of frailty, 40,41 and results from an imbalance between free radicals, especially reactive oxygen species (ROS), and biological antioxidant defense systems. 42 The levels of various oxidative stress markers such as ROS, superoxide dismutase (SOD), albumin, and C-reactive protein are significantly increased in individuals with frailty.…”

Association between Gut Microbiota and Biological Aging: A Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study

“…This, in turn, may promote inflammation and increase the risk of inflammation-related diseases, regardless of age [ 91 ]. Inflammation can lead to higher levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can cause anaerobic Firmicutes in the gut to become inactive, exacerbating inflammation and promoting the occurrence of aging-related phenotypes [ 91 , 92 ].…”