Researchers discover enzyme that slows aging and boosts health
Analyzing data acquired from animal testing in their labs, the researchers found that the certain enzyme ADH-1 might assist in lowering the concentration of these toxic byproducts in our body
Scientists may have found what could be the anti-aging enzyme that was long sought after in labs across the world. Studies revealed that byproducts of fat include fatty acids and glycerol, which lead to early death and an elevated level of chronic diseases. Analysing data acquired from animal testing in their labs, the researchers found that the certain enzyme ADH-1 might assist in lowering the concentration of these toxic byproducts in our body, thereby reducing glycerol levels and increasing the lifespans of beings.
Essential fatty acids which are the components of body fat are involved in various functions necessary for the body’s smooth running. Yet, when present in large amounts, their presence is not without consequences. Once the buildup of fatty acids is observed, it can hamper the normal functioning of the body and also instigate inflammation, which can lead to early death and an increased occurrence of chronic diseases.
An Associate Professor of Biology and Cell Biology at the University of Virginia, Eyleen Jorgelina O’Rourke, contributed an article to The Conversation and said, “My research team and I wondered whether reducing harmful fat byproducts might help slow the aging process and consequently stave off common diseases.”
While studying animals in labs, the researchers observed a consistent pattern: all anti-aging interventions resulted in reduced glycerol levels. The researcher stated, “When placed on a calorie-restricted diet, the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans lives about 40% longer. We found that the glycerol levels in the body of these long-lived worms were lower than in shorter-lived worms that were not food restricted.”
“The simple molecular structure and wealth of research on ADH-1 make it an attractive target for developing drugs that boost its activity. My lab’s long-term goal is to explore how compounds that activate ADH-1 affect the health and longevity of both mice and people.” added Eyleen Jorgelina O’Rourke.
The scientists concluded that increased ADH-1 activity led to lower glycerol levels. They discovered that worms fed a diet with added glycerol had their lifespans reduced by 30 percent. Conversely, animals genetically modified to produce more ADH-1 had low glycerol levels, remained healthier, lived longer, and did not gain extra weight, even when allowed to eat freely.
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