Effects of n-3 PUFA Intervention on Gut Microbiota Structure in the Elderly: A Fecal Sample– Based Detection and Analysis

Abstract

Aging is associated with significant alterations in gut microbiota composition, which are closely linked to inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, and age-related diseases. This study investigated the effects of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3 PUFA) intervention on gut microbiota structure in elderly individuals using fecal sample–based analysis. Elderly participants received an n-3 PUFA dietary intervention, and fecal samples were collected before and after the intervention for 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Changes in microbial diversity, community structure, and taxonomic composition were systematically evaluated. The results showed that n-3 PUFA supplementation significantly modulated gut microbiota profiles, characterized by increased microbial diversity, enrichment of beneficial bacteria associated with short-chain fatty acid production, and a reduction in potentially pro-inflammatory taxa. Beta diversity analysis revealed a clear separation between pre- and post-intervention microbial communities, indicating a substantial shift in overall gut microbiota structure. These findings suggest that n-3 PUFA intervention may contribute to the improvement of gut microbial balance in the elderly and provide a potential nutritional strategy for mitigating age-related gut dysbiosis and promoting healthy aging.