Author:
Carter Matthew M.,Demis Diane,Perelman Dalia,St. Onge Michelle,Petlura Christina,Cunanan Kristen,Mathi Kavita,Maecker Holden T.,Chow Jo May,Robinson Jennifer L.,Sonnenburg Erica D.,Buck Rachael H.,Gardner Christopher D.,Sonnenburg Justin L.
Abstract
AbstractAging-related decline in immune function is associated with diseases like cancer, atherosclerosis, and neurodegenerative conditions. This study aimed to improve the aging gut microbiota and immune system by introducing a prebiotic oligosaccharide, 2-fucosyllactose (2’-FL), abundant in human breast milk with established health benefits in infants and animal models. 2’-FL was consumed at either of two doses versus placebo by 89 healthy older individuals (average age = 67.3 years) in a 6-week randomized controlled trial. Although the primary endpoint (significant change in the cytokine response score) was not met, consumers of the prebiotic experienced increased levels ofBifidobacteriumin the gut microbiota, along with elevated serum levels of insulin, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) hormone. Multi-omics analysis indicated a systemic response to 2’-FL, which could be detected in blood and urine, showcasing the potential of this prebiotic to provide diverse benefits to aging individuals.
Publisher
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory