Bacterial exopolysaccharides mediate activation of flavin-containing monooxygenase 2 to extend lifespan in Caenorhabditis elegans.

ABSTRACT: The gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in modulating host physiology and longevity through the production of microbial-derived molecules. Among these, bacterial exopolysaccharides (EPS) represent a structurally diverse group of surface polysaccharides with emerging roles in regulating host well-being. Here, we investigated the role of Lactobacillus strains with the capability to produce EPS, using Caenorhabditis elegans as a model organism. Results revealed significant lifespan extension in worms fed with EPS-producing bacteria, accompanied by improved health-span markers such as enhanced pharyngeal pumping and reduced lipofuscin accumulation. Transcriptomic profiling identified robust upregulation of the host detoxification and immune defense pathways, highlighting the flavin-containing

SUBMITTER: Jakovljevic S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12781332 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature