Gut microbiota and kidney aging: insights into current research

Abstract

Aging induces structural and functional alterations in the kidneys, including changes in renal morphology and progressive decline in renal function. During aging, the gut microbiota undergoes profound shifts in composition and activity, transitioning from predominantly commensal to more pathogenic communities. Renal dysfunction further exacerbates this process by reducing toxin clearance and promoting the accumulation of uremic metabolites, which disrupt gut microbial balance. In turn, gut dysbiosis impairs kidney function, creating a self-perpetuating cycle of microbial imbalance and renal damage. Hence, breaking this vicious cycle of dysbiosis and kidney damage is important. This review sheds light on the bidirectional relationship between gut microbiota and kidney aging. It also highlights the potential of microbiota-targeted interventions to restore microbial balance and delay the onset of age-related issues.