Metabolomic Profiling Of Long-Lived Individuals Reveals A Distinct Subgroup With Cardiovascular Disease And Elevated Butyric Acid Derivatives
Scientists are constantly seeking to understand the secrets behind extreme longevity. A recent investigation into the unique biological makeup of individuals living to very old ages has uncovered fascinating insights into their body chemistry, or “metabolome,” which is the complete set of small-molecule chemicals found within a biological sample. It turns out that not all long-lived people are metabolically identical; there’s a surprising amount of diversity in their internal chemical processes. Researchers identified a specific, smaller group within these long-lived individuals who displayed significant differences in their metabolic profiles. This particular subgroup showed remarkably high levels of certain compounds, notably those related to butyric acid. Butyric acid is a short-chain fatty acid often produced by beneficial gut bacteria and is known to have various effects on the body. Interestingly, this metabolically distinct subgroup also tended to have cardiovascular diseases, which affect the heart and blood vessels. The presence of these elevated butyric acid-related compounds in individuals who have lived to extreme old age, even while experiencing cardiovascular issues, suggests that this specific metabolic pathway might play a crucial role in how some people manage to survive and thrive despite age-related health challenges. This discovery opens new avenues for understanding the complex interplay between metabolism, disease, and exceptional longevity, potentially leading to new strategies for promoting healthy aging.
Source: link to paper