Practical Geriatrics ›› 2026, Vol. 40 ›› Issue (6): 630-634.doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1003-9198.2026.06.017

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Exploring the comorbidity mechanism and treatment strategies of inflammatory bowel disease and sarcopenia in the elderly based on the gut microbiota-brain-muscle axis

WANG Wanhong, SUN Wenyu, ZHANG Yu, QIU Zhengang, LI Changhao, ZHANG Xin   

  1. Rehabilitation College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China (WANG Wanhong, QIU Zhengang, LI Changhao, ZHANG Xin);
    Department of Rehabilitation (SUN Wenyu); Department of Geriatrics (ZHANG Yu), Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250014, China
  • Received:2025-11-11 Online:2026-06-20 Published:2026-06-05
  • Contact: ZHANG Xin, Email: sdutcmkf@163.com

Abstract: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and sarcopenia are two common diseases that seriously affect the quality of life of elderly patients. Recent studies have shown that there is a close connection between the two diseases in terms of pathological mechanisms. The gut microbiota-brain-muscle axis, as an important regulatory pathway connecting the intestinal microecology, nervous system, and muscle function, provides a new perspective for revealing the comorbidity mechanism of IBD and sarcopenia. This article systematically reviews how gut microbiota dysbiosis affects brain function and muscle metabolism through neuroimmune regulation, thereby promoting the occurrence and development of these two diseases. It focuses on key links such as inflammatory responses, neuroendocrine regulation, and metabolic abnormalities. Combining the latest basic and clinical research results, it explores potential therapeutic targets and intervention strategies, providing theoretical basis and direction guidance for future research and clinical treatment.

Key words: gut microbiota-brain-muscle axis, inflammatory bowel disease, sarcopenia, neuroimmune regulation, microecological imbalance

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