Strategies to Counteract Aging and Promote Longevity

Strategies to Counteract Aging and Promote Longevity

Aging is a natural part of life, but what if we could slow it down and enjoy better health for longer? That’s exactly what scientists are trying to do. They’ve discovered some exciting ways to help us age more gracefully and live longer. In the pursuit of extending the human lifespan and enhancing the quality of life during aging, our multidisciplinary team has embarked on a comprehensive analysis of key biological pathways, pharmacological interventions, and emerging strategies to counteract aging and promote longevity. We present this review to provide a concise yet in-depth examination of the latest research findings in the field of aging biology, elucidating the potential mechanisms and interventions that could reshape the landscape of aging research and therapeutics. In this summary, we’ll explore some of the most promising ideas.

1. NAD+: The Cellular Energizer

Our cells need energy to function correctly, and there’s a vital molecule called NAD+ that helps with that. As we get older, our NAD+ levels drop, causing problems. However, researchers have found a way to boost NAD+ using a substance called NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide). In tests with mice, NMN has extended their telomeres (the protective caps on our DNA), improved blood flow, and increased their endurance. These are all good signs for living healthier, longer lives.

2. PI3K/Akt Pathway: Keeping Cells Healthy

Our cells have pathways that control many processes, including how they grow and stay healthy. The PI3K/Akt pathway is like a traffic director, telling cells when to grow, survive, and more. It’s involved in aging, but scientists have discovered some natural substances, like Radix Astragali and ginsenosides, that could help keep this pathway in check and slow down aging.

3. mTOR: The Cellular Caretaker

Inside our cells, there’s something called mTOR. It’s like a caretaker, making sure everything runs smoothly. It helps with things like cleaning out old cell parts and keeping our cells in good shape. Researchers have found that when they slow down mTOR, it helps protect the brain from diseases and keeps our bodies functioning well as we get older.

4. PKA: A Key to Health

PKA is like an energy manager in our cells. It helps control things like our metabolism and memory. When PKA isn’t as active, it triggers another protein called AMPK, which is like a cellular superhero. AMPK helps maintain our cells and keeps us healthy.

5. FOXO: The Cellular Protectors

FOXO is a group of proteins that protect our cells from damage. They can stop harmful processes and help cells work better. These proteins also help our body fight the effects of aging by preserving important cell functions.

6. IGF: The Growth Factor

IGF stands for insulin-like growth factor, and it helps our cells grow and develop. Scientists think that controlling IGF levels might help us stay healthier as we age.

7. Geroprotectors: Slowing Down Time

Geroprotectors are like superheroes that slow down aging. To be considered a geroprotector, a substance must extend life, improve our quality of life, and protect us from age-related diseases. Some exciting geroprotectors include metformin, rapamycin, aspirin, and natural compounds like resveratrol and curcumin.

8. Stem Cells: Regeneration Masters

Stem cells are amazing because they can turn into different types of cells and repair our bodies. Researchers are figuring out how to use stem cells to keep our bodies young and healthy.

Aging is still a mystery, but scientists are uncovering exciting ways to help us stay healthier and live longer. These discoveries give us hope for a future with a better quality of life as we age.

(Reference: Original article published on Experimental Gerontology 179 (2023) 112248,  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.exger.2023.112248).