Age-related differences in gut bacteria in people with major depression

In total, 70 patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) were compared to 71 healthy controls.

• Significant differences in gut microbiota composition were observed between young MDD patients and young healthy controls.
• In young MDD patients, specific bacterial populations were significantly decreased compared to healthy peers.
• In middle-aged MDD patients, different bacterial populations were significantly altered when compared to middle-aged healthy controls.
• Six different bacterial types were identified as differentially abundant in young MDD patients, while 25 were noted in middle-aged MDD patients.
• Age-specific changes in gut microbiota composition may be associated with major depressive disorder.

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