Exploring the therapeutic role of probiotics and prebiotics in mitigating diseases associated with advanced glycation end products

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are a class of compounds generated when reducing sugars interact with proteins, lipids, and other molecular structures. Excessive accumulation of AGEs in the body accelerates aging and contributes to various chronic conditions, including diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and inflammatory bowel diseases. Despite growing interest in strategies to prevent glycation damage, effective interventions to combat AGE-related diseases remain limited. This review examines the role of AGEs in disease pathology and evaluates strategies to mitigate their harmful effects. It further summarizes natural products and pharmaceutical agents currently used for anti-glycation purposes, along with their underlying mechanisms. Additionally, we explore the promising therapeutic potential of probiotics and prebiotics in protecting against AGE-related diseases, highlighting research evidence demonstrating their ability to reduce AGE accumulation and inhibit their formation. This review aims to inform the development of more effective glycation inhibitors and addresses the pressing gap in current research regarding targeted AGEs interventions.