A bacteria may just determine how long you live says Duke University researchers: What is Akkermansia? Can certain foods trigger its growth?

Believe it or not, one bacteria may contain the secret to how long you live! According to a study published in National Library Of Medicine in 2023, suggested that the trillions of microbes living inside the body play an important role in how we age.

The gut and oral microbiomes—vast communities of bacteria, viruses, fungi, archaea, and other microorganisms—work together to support numerous bodily functions and help maintain overall well-being. Researchers have increasingly found that the condition of these microbial ecosystems is closely linked to healthy ageing. A balanced and diverse microbiome is believed to promote longevity by supporting digestive health, reducing chronic inflammation, strengthening immune function, and contributing to a longer period of good health, often referred to as an improved health span.

One particular bacteria- the Akkermansia muciniphila, has been linked to longevity. Recent studies indicate that levels of Akkermansia muciniphila (A. muciniphila) decline with age. Researchers have found that older mice have significantly lower amounts of this beneficial bacterium in their feces than younger mice.


Human studies have reported similar findings, showing that A. muciniphila is more commonly found in the gut microbiota of healthy older adults and exceptionally long-lived individuals, including centenarians, than in older people with poorer health. These observations suggest that maintaining or increasing the abundance of A. muciniphila may be closely associated with healthier ageing and a longer lifespan spent in good health.

A research team from Duke University School of Medicine, in collaboration with scientists at the University of California, Berkeley, has published a landmark study in *Nature Microbiology* that sheds new light on *Akkermansia muciniphila*. The five-year project marks the first comprehensive effort to genetically engineer the bacterium and map the genetic mechanisms that enable it to thrive in the human gut.

The researchers uncovered how *A. muciniphila* breaks down mucin—the protective mucus lining of the intestines—to obtain nutrients and establish itself in the digestive tract. Led by senior author Raphael Valdivia, PhD, the team discovered that the bacterium first attaches mucin to its cell surface before transporting it into specialized internal compartments, where it is processed through a tightly regulated sequence of events.

To better understand the microbe's biology, the scientists employed advanced techniques such as high-throughput transposon mutagenesis, comparative genomics, and transcriptomic analysis. These methods allowed them to identify a number of genes that are crucial for the bacterium's growth and its ability to colonize the gut.

The identified genes produce proteins that enable *A. muciniphila* to digest mucin efficiently, generate beneficial fatty acids, and regulate key metabolic processes, offering valuable insights into how this beneficial gut bacterium supports intestinal health.

the Duke researchers found that Akkermansia can suppress the activity of genes responsible for cholesterol production in the intestine, but this effect occurs only when the bacterium is actively breaking down mucins. The findings suggest a mutually beneficial interaction between humans and the microbe: the body provides mucins as a nutrient source, and in return Akkermansia may help regulate cholesterol formation.

Excess cholesterol in the body is a major risk factor for conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and other metabolic disorders.

What Are Some Akkermansia Boosting Foods?

As per an article published on Resbiotic.com, these are some of the foods that boost growth of Akkermansia:

Berries

Berries such as , blackberries, cranberries, raspberries contain polyphenols which function as prebiotics to boost the production of akkermansia. It also has soluble fibre which builds up the mucus layer this bacterium feeds on.

Apple

Apples are rich in pectin which is a soluble fibre that feeds Akkermansia.

Vegetables

Prebiotic fibres such as inulin and resistant starch play an important role in supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Vegetables including broccoli, asparagus, leeks, and onions are among the richest natural sources of these compounds, making them valuable additions to a gut-friendly diet.

Broccoli stands out in particular because research suggests it may encourage the production of mucus in the intestinal lining. Since *Akkermansia muciniphila* uses this mucus layer as its primary source of nourishment, increased mucus production could help the bacterium grow and thrive, potentially contributing to better gut health.

Whole Grains

Whole grain foods such as oats, quinoa have beta-glucan and resistant starch which helps feed bacteria.