A game-changing result this week from the laboratory of Dario Valenzano (Max Planck Inst). A single treatment of antibiotics in middle-aged fish followed by transplant of gut bacteria from young fish resulted in extension of mean lifespan by 41%, max lifespan by 30%. Treated fish remained active at ages where untreated fish were slowing down. I say “game-changing” because up until now the gut microbiome has been a fascinating but peripheral discipline in the study of health. This single study raises the possibility that understanding the microbiome as a system could be a powerful new avenue toward health and longevity.
If our reporting has informed or inspired you, please consider making a donation. Every contribution, no matter the size, empowers us to continue delivering accurate, engaging, and trustworthy science and medical news. Independent journalism requires time, effort, and resources—your support ensures we can keep uncovering the stories that matter most to you.
Join us in making knowledge accessible and impactful. Thank you for standing with us!