PhD defence R. (Ruolin) Li

Below is a brief summary of the dissertation:

Due to global population aging and the increasing prevalence of sedentary lifestyles, the incidence of metabolism-associated chronic disorders—such as obesity, cardiometabolic diseases, osteoporosis, and sarcopenia—is rising rapidly. Although traditionally attributed to genetic and environmental factors and their interactions, the precise aetiology of these complex conditions remains incompletely understood. Recent studies suggest that genetic factors account for only a small proportion of the risk for developing non-communicable diseases, highlighting the significant role of environmental or other unidentified influences. Among these, the gut microbiome—a dynamic and modifiable reflection of environmental exposures—has emerged as a critical player. Its role in disease onset and progression is increasingly recognized, yet the identification of specific gut microbiome biomarkers relevant to disease aetiology and therapeutic potential for these complex diseases in the general population remains an important area for future investigation.