by According to recent research published in the journal “Nature Communications,” excess nutrients in cells can lead to premature aging in animals. The study, conducted by scientists at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), sheds light on the role of nutrient overload in the aging process.
The researchers discovered that when cells in the animals’ bodies were exposed to high levels of nutrients, it led to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are harmful molecules that can damage cells and DNA. This, in turn, accelerated the aging process.
The team, led by UCSF professor of biochemistry and biophysics, Cynthia Kenyon, conducted the study on roundworms, a common model organism for aging research. They found that when the roundworms were fed a high-calorie diet, low calorie food they exhibited signs of premature aging, such as decreased mobility and shorter lifespan.
The researchers also identified a specific gene, called daf-2, which is known to regulate the aging process in roundworms. They found that when this gene was activated, the animals were protected from the harmful effects of excess nutrients.
The study provides new insights into the role of nutrition in the aging process and could have implications for human health. The researchers suggest that limiting caloric intake and avoiding excessive nutrient consumption could help delay the onset of aging and age-related diseases.
In summary, a new study published in the journal “Nature Communications” reveals that excess nutrients in cells can lead to premature aging in animals. The research, conducted by scientists at UCSF, shows that high levels of nutrients can produce harmful molecules that damage cells and DNA, leading to signs of aging such as decreased mobility and shorter lifespan. The study also identifies a specific gene that can protect animals from the harmful effects of excess nutrients, and suggests that limiting caloric intake and avoiding excessive nutrient consumption could help delay the onset of aging and age-related diseases.
