77886Diagnostic biomarkers of gut microbiome-associated phenotypes predictive of healthy ageingClosedCR&D BilateralInnovate UKDifferent bacterial populations of gut are associated with longevity and healthy ageing and specific bacteria have been identified which cause immune responses. This project will define combined microbiome and human gene expression biomarker signatures diagnostic of healthy ageing gut phenotypes and associated inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and/or neurodegenerative disease. We will apply cutting edge measurement of microbiomes and gene expression profiles of gut samples from people aged 50 - 80 with and without inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and/or neurodegenerative disease. Gene expression biomarkers will be identified using TopMD AI-enhanced technology, developed at the University of Southampton. By applying mathematical topology, TopMD innovatively uses known biological pathways as coordinates for measuring the 'shape' of global gene expression, accurately representing the molecular phenotype as a robust 'pathway biomarker'. In this project, we are working with partner The BioArte Ltd to combined predictive power of microbiome and gene expression signatures. The BioArte Ltd is developing personalised remedies for diseases by identifying molecules obtained from human and animal microbiota. They have led the discovery of immune-regulating bacteria and microbiome signatures predictive of longevity. The combined microbiome- host gene expression biomarker signatures of healthy ageing will be developed into a first of its kind diagnostic point of care test for gut microbiome-associated IBD and neurodegenerative disease in people aged 50-80\.