Topic 

Understanding the Microbiota of Centenarians for Healthy Aging

Research Summary

Koji Atarashi focuses on how discrete gut microbes and their metabolites educate the immune system and promote healthy longevity. Landmark contributions include: (i) identifying TH17-inducing consortia such as segmented filamentous bacteria; (ii) uncovering Clostridia species whose short-chain fatty acids expand Treg cells and reinforce intestinal barrier integrity; (iii) demonstrating that specific Klebsiella strains drive TH1-mediated colitis; and (iv) isolating centenarian-associated bile-acid metabolizers linked to extended lifespan. By integrating multi-omics platforms with gnotobiotic mouse models, his laboratory translates mechanistic insights into next-generation microbial therapeutics.

Talk Abstract

We have discovered that Japanese centenarians exhibit a distinctive bile acid profile characterized by an enrichment of iso-allo-lithocholic acids (iso-allo-LCA). Using a combination of culture-based bacterial isolation, targeted metabolomics, whole-genome sequencing, and gnotobiotic mouse models, we identified Parabacteroides merdae and members of the Odoribacteraceae family as key strains capable of converting primary bile acids into iso-allo-LCA with potent bactericidal properties. In this talk, I will present our strategy for bacterial screening, the functional characterization of the associated enzymatic gene cluster, and discuss translational pathways toward the development of live biotherapeutic products that promote healthy ageing.

Biography

Koji Atarashi, MD, PhD, is Professor of Bacteriology at Kyushu University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Japan. Over the past 15 years he has pioneered research on host–microbiota crosstalk, identifying segmented filamentous bacteria and other gut commensals that shape TH17, Treg and TH1 cell immunity. He established gnotobiotic mouse and anaerobic-culturing pipelines used worldwide. His work underpins next-generation biotherapeutics for inflammatory bowel disease, cancer immunotherapy and healthy ageing.

Stay Connected
LinkedIn | Newsletters