Background
Multicomponent Exercise has been shown to modulate the gut microbiota leading to changes that may contribute to a less inflammatory and more eubiotic microbial profile. However, there is limited evidence on the effects of exercise on the gut microbiota in older adults living with HIV (OAWH). In this 48-week longitudinal study, we evaluated the changes in the gut microbiota through metagenomic whole genome shotgun (mWGS) sequencing of participants after undergoing 48 weeks of a Multicomponent Exercise Program (MEP).
Methods
Sedentary adults aged 50 and over, with and without HIV, were included in a prospective longitudinal study with intervention, a MEP, and with 12-, 24- and 48-week follow-up. Clinical variables were obtained as well as adherence to the MEP defined as good (>50%) or poor (<50%). Stool samples were collected at each visit. We performed mWGS sequencing of 129 faeces DNA and analysed the taxonomy and functional annotation by Metastats and LEfSe analysis.
Results
We included 60 participants, 40 OAWH. Median age was 56.5 years. 23.3% were women. All participants with HIV were virologically controlled. At baseline, significant differences in the gut microbiota composition were observed when comparing different groups: a relative abundance of Firmicutes, Prevotella, and Dialister was significantly higher in men compared to women (p<0.05) and similarly, Catenibacterium was found to be increased in older adults with HIV (OAWH) (p<0.05). Furthermore, we globally observed high relative abundance of some genus related with inflammation and obesity as Collinsella spp. (p<0.05) (Figure 1A). Finally, according to changes of relative abundances, differences after 48 weeks of MEP highlighted a significant increase in bacterial genus such as Bacteroides, Prevotella, and Bifidobacterium and significant decrease of Coriobacteriaceae (Figure 1B). These genera play a crucial role in the production of short-chain fatty acids and immune regulation.
Conclusions
A MEP could positively modulate the gut microbiota in OAWH potentially promoting a healthier and less inflammatory microbial environment. This highlights the potential role of regular physical activity as a strategy to improve gut health and overall well-being in older populations, regardless of HIV status.