The pathways linking gut microbiome dysbiosis, telomere attrition, and genomic instability (IMAGE)
Caption
In dysbiosis, an imbalance between beneficial and harmful gut bacteria reduces protective metabolites like short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and increases harmful substances, leading to systemic inflammation and oxidative stress. These conditions accelerate telomere shortening, which contributes to cellular senescence and DNA damage. As telomeres shorten, chromosomal instability increases, elevating the risk of age-related diseases such as neurodegeneration and metabolic disorders. Chronic inflammation further disrupts the microbiome, creating a feedback loop that accelerates telomere attrition and genomic instability.
Credit
Swarup K. Chakrabarti, Dhrubajyoti Chattopadhyay
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License
CC BY-NC