Fecal transplants may reduce effects of aging in the gut, eyes, and brain

A recent study, published in Microbiome and conducted in mice, suggests that introducing younger bacteria into the gut via fecal transfers could help to reduce the effects of aging in the gut, eyes, and brain. The mice were divided into three age groups: Researchers first depleted the gut microbiota of the mice who received the fecal transfers by giving them broad-spectrum antibiotics. However, their results did not indicate improved memory function.Study author Dr. Aimee Parker explained their findings to Medical News Today:“These results show that gut microbes have an important role in regulating inflammation associated with deteriorating vision and brain function, at least in mice.”She said the findings suggest that scientists may be “able to manipulate our gut microbes to help maintain good vision and good brain health for longer in old age.”When asked to comment on the study, Dr. Graham Rook, emeritus professor of medical microbiology with the University College London, noted that there are many differences between people’s gut flora.“Our understanding of microbiota is increasing but still poor.