A new study suggests that a specific gut bacterium may be linked to greater muscle strength in humans and improved physical performance in mice, according to The Conversation.

Scientists found that the bacterium Roseburia inulinivorans, present in the gut microbiome, is positively associated with strength indicators, including handgrip strength, in adults of different ages.

Among older participants who carried this microbe, grip strength was approximately 29% higher compared to those in whom the bacterium was not detected.

Additional experiments in mice showed that introducing R. inulinivorans after suppressing the normal gut microbiota led to a significant increase in forelimb strength and enlargement of muscle fibers compared to a control group.

Researchers note that the bacteria did not naturally colonize the intestines of mice under normal conditions, and further studies are needed to determine whether this relationship is causal in humans.

However, the findings support the concept of the so-called “gut–muscle axis” and suggest that R. inulinivorans could be a promising candidate for probiotic strategies aimed at preserving muscle strength with age.

Previous research has already explored the link between the gut microbiota and muscle function, indicating that the composition of the microbiome may influence physical performance and overall muscle health.