The human gut microbiome and sleep across adulthood: associations and therapeutic potential.
Publication Title
Letters in applied microbiology
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
4-1-2025
Keywords
Humans; Gastrointestinal Microbiome; Sleep; Adult; Aging; Brain; Sleep Wake Disorders; human gut microbiome; prebiotics; probiotics; public health microbiology; sleep; washington; isb
Abstract
Sleep is an essential homeostatic process that undergoes dynamic changes throughout the lifespan, with distinct life stages predisposed to specific sleep pathologies. Similarly, the gut microbiome also varies with age, with different signatures associated with health and disease in the latest decades of life. Emerging research has shown significant cross-talk between the gut microbiota and the brain through several pathways, suggesting the microbiota may influence sleep, though the specific mechanisms remain to be elucidated. Here, we critically examine the existing literature on the potential impacts of the gut microbiome on sleep and how this relationship varies across adulthood. We suggest that age-related shifts in gut microbiome composition and immune function may, in part, drive age-related changes in sleep. We conclude with an outlook on the therapeutic potential of microbiome-targeted interventions aimed at improving sleep across adulthood, particularly for individuals experiencing high stress or with sleep complaints.
Area of Special Interest
Digestive Health
Specialty/Research Institute
Gastroenterology
Specialty/Research Institute
Sleep Medicine
DOI
10.1093/lambio/ovaf043
