Health / Mon, 27 Jul 2026 The Tribune

Gut microbiome, inflammation linked to ageing: UK scientist

Chronic inflammation may accelerate ageing, while the condition of the gut microbiome could also play a role in the ageing process, according to Dr Amit Grover, Principal Scientist (Oncology Research), AstraZeneca, United Kingdom. AdvertisementSpeaking on inflammaging, the impact of the gut microbiome and cancer immunology, Dr Grover highlighted adaptive immunity declines with ageing. Based on his research, he suggested the incidence of myeloid malignancies increases with advancing age. Genetic alterations or mutations are also important factors behind health complications occurring during ageing,” Dr Grover said. AdvertisementEarlier, Prof NS Chauhan, Head, Department of Biochemistry, introduced the invited speaker and highlighted the background of the topic.

Delivering an illuminating lecture on ‘Blood, Bugs and Biology: Decoding the Ageing Axis’ organised by the Department of Biochemistry at Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU) on Tuesday, Dr Grover said microbiomes could be utilised to improve immunotherapy and combat adverse health conditions.

Speaking on inflammaging, the impact of the gut microbiome and cancer immunology, Dr Grover highlighted adaptive immunity declines with ageing. Based on his research, he suggested the incidence of myeloid malignancies increases with advancing age.

“Compared to young people, older people have more myeloid cells than lymphoid cells, which affects immunity. There is an alteration in microbial diversity during ageing. Immunotherapy may help in T-cell activation, which assists in combating malignancies. Genetic alterations or mutations are also important factors behind health complications occurring during ageing,” Dr Grover said.

He also responded to questions from faculty members and participants during the interactive session.

Earlier, Prof NS Chauhan, Head, Department of Biochemistry, introduced the invited speaker and highlighted the background of the topic.