CAR-T Cell Therapy: A Natural Approach to Revitalizing Aging Intestinal Health

Posted on January 7, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

The Importance of a Strong Intestinal Lining for Optimal Health

Shutterstock/3dMediSphere

As we age, the cells that line our intestines gradually lose their ability to regenerate, impacting our immune health. However, recent research has successfully reversed this decline in older mice using genetically modified immune cells.

This innovative approach, known as CAR T-cell therapy, is primarily used to target specific blood cancers. It entails collecting a patient’s T cells, reprogramming them in a laboratory to identify and eliminate cancerous cells, and then reintroducing them into the bloodstream. Emerging variations of this therapy show promise not only in combatting solid tumors but also in preventing arterial blockages and treating autoimmune diseases like lupus.

In a groundbreaking study, Cemil Beyaz and his team at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, New York, explored the application of this therapy for revitalizing the aging gut. They focused on targeting damaged cells, known as senescent cells, which accumulate over time, fail to proliferate, and secrete substances that exacerbate inflammation and promote further aging. The researchers aimed their intervention at a protein called uPAR, prevalent on aging cells.

“The decline in gut health we observe with aging is linked to diminished stem cell fitness responsible for renewing the intestinal lining every three to five days,” Beyaz states. “We posited that eliminating these ‘unfit’ senescent cells would enhance the regenerative ability and overall functionality of stem cells in older mice.”

To validate this hypothesis, the researchers engineered CAR T cells from older mice to specifically recognize and eliminate uPAR on senescent cells. Upon reintroducing these modified cells, the researchers noted a significant increase in both the activity and number of stem cells maintaining tissue function, reaching levels comparable to those observed in younger mice. The treated older mice also exhibited marked improvements in intestinal barrier integrity and reduced inflammation compared to a separate cohort that received CAR T-cell therapy targeting different mechanisms.

“By removing senescent cells, we not only inhibited the aging process but also witnessed a reversal, with tissues displaying characteristics similar to those of young mice,” said team member Corina Amor, also from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory.

“This therapy could potentially reverse age-related declines in bowel function, decreasing vulnerability to diseases such as intestinal infections, compromised intestinal integrity, and even cancer,” explained Tuomas Tammera from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, who was not part of the study. However, he emphasized that ensuring the treatment’s effectiveness and safety in humans remains crucial.

Onur Eskiokaku, a researcher at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, highlighted the importance of determining the optimal dosage before advancing to human trials. “While uPAR is abundant in aged, defective cells, it may also be present in healthy tissues under certain conditions,” he noted.

It’s important to remember that senescent cells aren’t all detrimental; they play roles in tumor suppression and wound healing. “We are investigating the implications of depleting uPAR expression in other tissues,” mentioned Jesse Poganic from Harvard Medical School.

Additionally, treating aging in otherwise healthy individuals is not commonplace. The complexity and expense associated with CAR-T therapy, coupled with ongoing safety concerns, suggest that widespread application for reversing aging effects is not imminent, according to Joanna Neves at the Center at King’s College London. “Safety standards for preventative treatments must be more stringent than those for oncology.”

Beyaz asserts that addressing the age-related decline in intestinal function has long posed a challenge, with no effective solutions currently available, especially when the intestinal barrier’s regenerative capability is compromised. This research marks a significant step forward, indicating that the removal of unfit cells can restore crucial functions.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

The Impact of Parenthood on the Aging Process: A Complex Relationship

Posted on November 7, 2025 by

Many claim that children keep us feeling youthful, but it’s a complex issue.

Javier Zayas/Getty Images

For centuries, humanity has sought to comprehend the aging process. The ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle theorized that aging correlates with the passage of time. The reduction of water necessary for bodily functions was his primary focus.

A contemporary concept known as the disposable soma hypothesis proposes that aging is the cost of reproduction; evolution, it argues, favors genetic replication above all else. This results in a fundamental trade-off. The substantial energy expended on having and nurturing offspring is often compromised by investments in DNA repair, disease resistance, and organ maintenance.

This idea is particularly relevant for women, who allocate more resources to reproduction through pregnancy and nursing than their male counterparts. However, when researchers examined whether women with more children had shorter lifespans, findings were inconsistent. Some studies supported the hypothesis while others did not.

“It’s challenging to extract clear correlations between childbearing and longevity,” said Elizabeth Bolland from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, a professor not involved in the research.

Euan Young and associates from the University of Groningen in the Netherlands postulated that variations in reproductive costs depend on maternal environment, noting, “In favorable conditions, this trade-off is less apparent. It’s during challenging times that it becomes noticeable,” Young remarked.

To explore this hypothesis, researchers examined parish records of over 4,500 Finnish women spanning 250 years, including the era of Finland’s Great Famine from 1866 to 1868. Young highlighted how difficult times impacted reproduction and longevity.

They discovered that for women who lived before and after the famine, or those who had no children during that period, there was no notable correlation between child quantity and lifespan. Conversely, women who gave birth during the famine experienced a reduction in life expectancy of six months for each child born.

This research stems from a study released last year, which utilized a dataset from the pre-industrial populace of Quebec, Canada, tracked over two centuries. This previous work illustrated trade-offs in mothers likely to be in poor health or facing high stress, without evaluating the influence of specific environmental conditions.

In contrast, Young’s team emphasizes catastrophic events as factors that underscore these reproductive trade-offs. “This extensive dataset enables us to control for confounding variables,” he stated. “This study brings us closer to understanding causality without needing laboratory-controlled experiments,” remarked Bornd.

This investigation further endorses the energy demands of pregnancy and breastfeeding, which necessitate substantial additional calorie intake daily. During periods of starvation, women cannot acquire sufficient energy from food, which compromises their body’s “basal metabolism.” As a result, essential bodily functions may decelerate or cease, leading to deteriorated health and shortened lifespans, Young explained. This scenario clarifies why previous studies often identified these trade-offs predominantly in lower socio-economic groups, who typically reside in resource-limited conditions.

Bolland noted that this trade-off’s occurrence under particularly adverse circumstances, alongside a time when women usually had more children, may help clarify why women generally outlive men. In the UK, girls born between 2021 and 2023 are projected to live four years longer than boys.

In contemporary Western societies, reproductive costs have significantly diminished, with the average number of births declining drastically over centuries, as noted by Bornd. Consequently, it’s likely that very few women reach the stage where lifelong costs become evident. Bolland and colleagues noted in their study analyzing Utah’s historical population, that this threshold was only observed when women had five or more children. The average woman in the United States is now expected to have 1.6 children throughout her lifetime.

Therefore, other environmental factors may play a larger role in explaining the lifespan disparity between genders. For instance, men are generally more prone to smoking and tend to consume more alcohol, both of which influence longevity, according to Bolund. The current gap in longevity between men and women likely results from a mix of reduced reproductive costs for women relative to earlier historical periods, alongside differences in lifestyle choices.

Research also indicates that variations in sex chromosomes are significant. “Differences between the sexes extend beyond reproductive costs; thus, further research is essential to delineate how different factors impact sex-specific aging,” Young concluded.

Topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Astronomers Reveal Aging Stars Could Be Devouring Nearby Giant Exoplanets

Posted on November 6, 2025 by

During the concluding phase of their main sequence life, stars with mass comparable to the Sun experience a transformative evolution. This evolutionary process is likely to affect the surrounding planetary systems. As the star expands in its post-main-sequence stage, astronomers anticipate that most exoplanets detected to date may be engulfed by the growing star.

An artist’s impression of a sun-like star engulfing a giant exoplanet. Image credits: International Gemini Observatory / NOIRLab / NSF / AURA / M. Garlick / M. Zamani

Utilizing data from NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS), astronomers Edward Bryant and Vincent Van Eylen studied 456,941 stars that have just commenced their post-main sequence phase.

By employing a computer algorithm, they targeted giant planets with short orbital periods (those that complete an orbit in less than 12 days) and searched for consistent dips in brightness that would indicate these planets transiting in front of their host stars.

They discovered 130 planets and planet candidates, including 33 previously unknown, closely orbiting these stars.

The researchers observed that such planets are less likely to exist around stars that have expanded and cooled sufficiently to be categorized as red giants (more evolved stars), implying that many of these planets might have already been destroyed.

Dr. Bryant, an astronomer at University College London and the University of Warwick, stated: “This provides compelling evidence that as stars progress beyond the main sequence, planets can rapidly spiral out of existence.”

“This topic has been debated and theorized for some time, but we can now observe this phenomenon directly and quantify it at the level of stellar populations.”

“We expected to observe this phenomenon, but we were still astonished by how effectively these stars can consume nearby planets.”

“This destruction is believed to stem from a gravitational tug-of-war between the planet and the star, known as tidal interactions.”

“As the star evolves and expands, these interactions intensify.”

“Just as the moon influences the Earth’s oceans, creating tides, planets also exert a pull on their stars.”

“These interactions decelerate the planet, reducing its orbit and causing it to spiral inward, ultimately resulting in its disintegration or absorption by the star.”

“In the coming billions of years, our sun will expand and transform into a red giant,” mentioned Dr. Van Eylen, an astronomer at University College London.

“Will the planets in our solar system endure this transformation? Our findings suggest that, in some instances, planets do not survive.”

“Earth may be better off than the giant planets much closer to the stars we examine.”

“However, we only analyzed the initial part of the post-main-sequence phase, spanning the first one or two million years. There is still ample opportunity for stellar evolution.”

“Unlike the giant planets lost in our investigation, Earth has the potential to endure the Sun’s red giant phase. However, life on Earth is likely to be extinguished.”

The team’s paper was published on October 15, 2025, in Royal Astronomical Society Monthly Notices.

_____

Edward M. Bryant and Vincent Van Eylen. 2025. Determine the impact of post-main sequence stellar evolution on the population of passing giant planets. MNRAS 544 (1): 1186-1214; doi: 10.1093/mnras/staf1771

Source: www.sci.news

Revolutionary ‘Aging Atlas’ Uncovers Organ Changes Throughout Life Span

Posted on October 24, 2025 by

The visible signs of aging, like wrinkles, gray hair, and joint discomfort, are merely surface reflections of more intricate processes happening within our cells. Deep inside your body, every organ experiences its own subtle molecular shifts as you grow older.

Researchers have now developed the most detailed map to date illustrating how this process unfolds.

For further insights into our findings, which are based on data from over 15,000 samples, please visit this preprint research. The paper, currently awaiting peer review, offers an unprecedented view of how aging modifies our genomic blueprint from head to toe.

A collaborative effort among researchers worldwide has led to the creation of a comprehensive “aging atlas” that maps DNA methylation (chemical tags that regulate gene activity) across 17 different types of human tissues while tracking age-related changes.

“DNA methylation, simply put, is a chemical modification on DNA,” said Dr. Jesse Poganic, co-author of the study and a medical instructor at Harvard Medical School, as reported by BBC Science Focus.

“At a fundamental level, their primary role is to regulate which genes are activated and which are not.”

If you stretched all the DNA in your body, it would span over 300 times the distance from Earth to the sun and back – Photo credit: Getty

Despite a few mutations, each cell shares essentially the same genetic information in the form of its genome. So how do lung cells recognize their identity while stomach cells act as stomach cells? This is where methylation plays a crucial role.

“The methylation or unmethylation status at a specific point on the genome determines whether a particular gene is turned on or off,” Poganik noted.

But what does all this reveal about the aging process?

DNA methylation serves as one of the body’s essential epigenetic mechanisms, acting as a molecular switch that toggles genes on or off without altering the DNA sequence itself. By adding and removing tiny molecules known as methyl groups, cells can adjust which genes are expressed in response to diet, exercise, infections, and other environmental influences.

As time passes, these methylation patterns alter in specific ways, forming the basis of the so-called epigenetic clock, which serves as a molecular measure of biological age. Until now, most of these clocks relied on blood samples, leaving scientists uncertain if other organs followed similar patterns.

“DNA methylation patterns differ from tissue to tissue. They are specific to both the tissue and the cell type,” said Professor Nir Eynon, the study’s senior author and research group leader at Monash University, as reported by BBC Science Focus. “Thus, blood measurements don’t necessarily represent what happens in your liver, muscles, or brain.”

This gap prompted the team to gather all publicly available datasets on methylation within reach, complemented by new data from global collaborators.

The analysis covered nearly 1 million points across the genome, encompassing 17 organs, from the brain and heart to the skin, liver, stomach, and retina.

Atlas of Aging

The researchers discovered that the proportion of genomes with methylation tags varied significantly across tissues, ranging from approximately 38 percent in the cervix to over 60 percent in the retina. Surprisingly, age-related changes were quite uniform, with most tissues becoming increasingly hypermethylated as they age, resulting in more tagged DNA sites and the silencing of certain genes.

However, two organs defied this trend. Both skeletal muscle and lung tissue can experience a loss of methyl tags over time, leading to excessive or irregular gene expression.

“Most tissues show hypermethylation with age,” explained Dr. Max Jack, the study’s lead author. BBC Science Focus via email. “Yet when you refine it down to methylation rates, distinct tissue-specific patterns emerge.”

Different organs age at varying rates. An aging atlas begins to elucidate why – Credit: Getty

For instance, adipose tissue predominantly shifts toward hypermethylation, while changes are more balanced in the brain. These patterns may illuminate how different organs react to common aging stressors, such as inflammation, according to Jacques.

Overall, significantly age-related methylation changes were observed in brain, liver, and lung tissues, with skin and colon tissues also showing marked alterations. Conversely, pancreatic, retinal, and prostate tissues exhibited the least detectable age-related changes, possibly due to limited data or greater resilience to aging.

Correlation, Not Causation (For Now)

At first glance, the data imply that some organs age quicker than others. However, researchers caution that these distinctions cannot yet be interpreted as a direct rate of aging.

This is partly due to statistical factors. Some organs represent thousands of samples, while others are represented by only a handful.

Moreover, “We know that methylation changes occur as we age,” Poganik states. “What we don’t know is the extent to which they contribute to aging.”

In other words, while scientists are aware of the methylation alterations linked to aging, it’s still unclear whether those changes induce aging or whether aging triggers those changes.

Poganik believes that alterations in methylation likely account for at least some of the observable phenomena associated with aging. “Even cautious scientists would suggest there’s an element of causation,” he remarks.

The allure of this new atlas lies in its revelation of common molecular themes threading throughout the body, he adds.

“One of the most compelling aspects of this study is that it demonstrates some universality in the aging process. When we analyze various tissues, we encounter numerous similar methylation changes, suggesting a universal quality to aging.”

Nevertheless, he warns that not all alterations are causal. With so many ongoing methylation changes, some are almost certainly part of aging, while others may not hold significance.

Old atlases might not pinpoint which changes are critical and which are not, but they offer an invaluable collection of data for researchers to delve deeper into the issue than ever before. The atlas is now openly accessible through an online portal for other scientists to explore and utilize.

“We have consistently prioritized open-source research,” Jack states. “With this, we aim to make it accessible to everyone, not only to advance research but also to foster collaboration.”

Going forward, the research team plans to examine some universal associations prevalent across all tissues as we age, alongside other biomarkers that may be influencing the aging process.

“Advancements in aging pale in comparison to those in cancer,” Poganik adds. With the assistance of this atlas, scientists may finally bridge that gap.

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

High-Tech Glasses and Eye Implants Revive Vision Affected by Aging

Posted on October 20, 2025 by

Study participant measuring reading capacity post-retinal implant

Moorfields Eye Hospital

Study participant measuring visual acuity while wearing glasses post-retinal implant — Study participant measuring reading capacity post-retinal implant

Moorfields Eye Hospital

Individuals experiencing significant vision impairment can regain the ability to read, thanks to a compact wireless chip implanted in one eye along with advanced glasses.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a prevalent condition that impacts central vision and tends to progress over time. While the precise cause remains unknown, this condition arises from damage to the light-sensitive photoreceptor cells and neurons located in the central retina, leading to difficulties in facial recognition and reading. Available treatments are primarily designed to slow down the progression.

An advanced form of AMD referred to as geographic atrophy typically allows individuals to retain some photoreceptor cells that facilitate peripheral vision, along with sufficient retinal neurons to relay visual information to the brain.

Leveraging this capability, Daniel Palanker and his team at Stanford University in California created the PRIMA device. This system includes a small camera mounted on the glasses, which captures images and projects them through infrared light onto a 2-by-2-millimeter solar-powered wireless chip implanted at the rear of the eye.

The chip then transforms the image data into electrical signals, which the retinal neurons transmit to the brain. Infrared light is employed for this process as it is invisible to the human eye, thereby ensuring it does not interfere with any remaining vision. “This allows patients to utilize both the prosthesis and their peripheral vision simultaneously,” explains Palanker.

To evaluate its efficacy, researchers enlisted 32 participants aged 60 and above, all suffering from geographic atrophy. Their visual acuity in at least one eye was below 20/320—meaning they could see what a person with 20/20 vision could see at 320 feet (97.5 meters) only at 20 feet (6 meters).

The team initially implanted a chip in one of the participant’s eyes. After a waiting period of four to five weeks, the volunteers began using the glasses in their everyday activities. The glasses enabled them to magnify their view up to 12 times and adjust brightness and contrast as needed.

After a year of using the device, 27 of the participants managed to read again and recognize shapes and patterns. They also noted an average improvement of five lines on a standard eye chart compared to their initial findings. Some participants were able to achieve 20/42 vision.

“Witnessing them progress from reading letters to full words brought immense joy to both sides. One patient expressed, ‘I believed my eyes were irreparably damaged, but now they’re revitalizing,'” shares Jose Alan Sahel from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.

While stem cell therapy and gene therapy may potentially restore vision lost due to AMD, these approaches are still in early experimental trials. PRIMA stands out as the first artificial eye designed to restore functional vision in individuals with the condition, allowing them to perceive shapes and patterns.

Approximately two-thirds of the volunteers experienced temporary side effects, such as increased intraocular pressure, as a result of the implants; however, this did not hinder their vision improvement.

Comparison of a trial participant’s eye (left) and eye with retinal implant (right)

Science Co., Ltd.

“This research is both exciting and significant,” remarks Francesca Cordeiro from Imperial College London. “It provides hope for delivering vision improvements that have previously seemed more like science fiction.”

The improved visibility experienced by participants is limited to black and white. “Our next objective is to develop software to provide grayscale resolution and enhance facial recognition,” states Palanker. Nevertheless, researchers do not anticipate achieving color vision in the near future.

Palanker also aims to increase PRIMA’s resolution, which is currently constrained by pixel size and the total count that can be included on a chip. Testing a more advanced version in rats is underway. “This current version equates to human vision of 20/80, but electronic zoom can enable vision as sharp as 20/20,” he explains.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Research Suggests Artificial Sweeteners May Accelerate Brain Aging

Posted on September 6, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

New research suggests that artificial sweeteners may have unexpected risks for brain health.

In a study published in Neurology, researchers analyzed the diets of over 12,700 adults in Brazil, revealing that individuals who consumed higher amounts of calorie-free sweeteners experienced a more rapid decline in memory and cognitive abilities over an eight-year period.

This decline was especially notable among diabetic patients and those under the age of 60.

The study examined seven sweeteners commonly found in diet sodas, flavored waters, yogurt, and low-calorie desserts: aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame-K, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, and tagatose.

All except tagatose were linked to cognitive decline, particularly affecting memory and verbal fluency.

Participants were categorized into three intake groups. Those with the highest consumption—approximately 191 milligrams daily, similar to a single can of diet soda for aspartame—demonstrated cognitive aging equivalent to 1.6 additional years, at least 62% faster than those with lower consumption.

“Low and no-calorie sweeteners are often regarded as healthier alternatives to sugar, but our findings indicate that certain sweeteners may negatively impact brain health over time,” stated Professor Claudia Kimmy Sumoto from the University of Sao Paulo.

“Prior research linked artificial sweeteners to conditions such as diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and depression, but the effects on cognition were previously unexplored.”

Consumption of artificial sweeteners similar to daily cans of diet soda was associated with accelerated cognitive decline, akin to 1.6 years of brain aging – Credit: Getty

Interestingly, the link was primarily observed in adults under 60 years old.

“We anticipated that the association would be more pronounced in older adults due to their increased risk of dementia and cognitive decline,” Sumoto noted. “Conversely, our findings suggest that exposure to sweeteners during middle age could be particularly detrimental, which is crucial as this period is vital for establishing long-term brain health.”

The findings do not conclusively prove that sweeteners are the direct cause of cognitive decline, with limitations including reliance on self-reported dietary habits and the absence of control over sweetener usage in the research.

Nevertheless, Sumoto emphasized the need for further investigation, including brain imaging and studies examining gut health and inflammation.

Her team is already conducting neuroimaging studies to better understand these associations, although results are not yet available.

“More research is essential to validate our findings and to explore whether alternative sweeteners like those from the apple family, honey, maple syrup, and coconut sugar provide effective options,” Sumoto concluded.

About our experts

Claudia Sumoto is an assistant professor at the University of Sao Paulo, Brazil. She is a trained physician with research published in journals such as The Lancet, Nature Neuroscience, and Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease.

read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Research Indicates Space Travel May Accelerate Stem Cell Aging by Up to 10 Times

Posted on September 6, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Transitioning to space poses significant challenges for the human body.

Astronauts can experience loss of bone density, swollen nerves in their brains and eyes, and alterations in gene expression. Research indicates that time spent in space can accelerate aging.

Groundbreaking research by NASA’s twin astronauts Mark and Scott Kelly monitored aging indicators in both siblings, with Mark remaining on Earth while Scott spent 340 days in space.

Six months later, several changes in Scott persisted, including DNA damage, cognitive decline, and telomere shortening that affects chromosome protection. This was highlighted in the Journal Science.

Recent research published in Cell Stem Cell reveals that stem cells also show signs of aging due to stress from space flight.

According to Dr. Catriona Jamieson, director of the Sanford Stem Cell Institute at UC San Diego, these cells are “aging ten times faster in space than on Earth.”

Stem cells are unique cells capable of differentiating into various tissue types. Their accelerated aging poses a concern as it diminishes the body’s natural ability to repair tissues and organs.

This new research comes at a time of increasing interest in space exploration, with government plans for long-term lunar missions and private companies sending consumers and celebrities into space. Understanding these health risks is crucial for safer space travel. Additionally, studying the acceleration of intracellular aging aids researchers in comprehending biological processes at a slower pace.

Astronauts and twin brothers Scott and Mark Kelly at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in 2016.
Houston Chronicle /Hurst Newspaper /Houston Chronicle by Getty Image

Researchers utilized bone marrow stem cells sourced from individuals who underwent hip replacement procedures. These cells were cultivated in “nanobioreactors,” essentially small, clear blood bags no larger than an iPhone that facilitate biological processes. The nanobioreactor was housed in a monitored environment known as cubelabs.

Samples from each patient were divided into two cubelabs; one was sent to space, while the other remained on Earth.

The samples intended for space travelled aboard the International Space Station across four commercial resupply missions conducted by SpaceX. Overall, the samples experienced microgravity for 32-45 days, the weightlessness found in orbit. For comparison, the Earth-bound cells were maintained in a cube lab setup.

Cubelabs monitored cell conditions throughout the journey and terrestrial duration, capturing daily images using a microscope. Upon the return of the space-stressed stem cells to Earth, researchers conducted comparisons against ground controls, sequenced the genome, and performed additional analyses.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Groundbreaking Discovery: Scientists May Have Uncovered a Method to Halt Brain Aging

Posted on August 30, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

As we grow older, our cognitive learning and memory capabilities decline—recent studies have identified the proteins responsible for this phenomenon.

Researchers at UC San Francisco have pinpointed the culprit: an iron-associated protein called FTL1. Its detrimental effects hinder cognitive awareness throughout the aging process, and understanding this may allow us to target it in treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

“It’s essentially a reversal of the challenges,” said Saul Vilda, PhD, Associate Director and Senior Author of the Papers at UCSF Bakar Aging Research Institute; Natural aging. “It’s about more than just slowing or preventing symptoms.”

The hippocampus, a brain region essential for learning and memory, is particularly susceptible to the effects of aging. Researchers observed an increase in neuronal FTL1 in the hippocampus of older mice, correlating with cognitive decline and reduced intercellular connections.

The hippocampus, shown here, is vital for the formation of new memories (credit: Getty Images)

In an experiment, scientists artificially increased FTL1 levels in young mice, leading to brain and behavior changes reminiscent of older mice. Elevated FTL1 levels hinder synaptic connections, ultimately resulting in poorer memory performance.

Interestingly, their motor skills and anxiety levels remained stable, indicating that the cognitive impairments were specifically linked to memory and synaptic functions.

When researchers reduced FTL1 levels in the hippocampus of older mice, they noted improved neuronal connections and enhanced performance in memory tests, effectively reversing some signs of aging.

The FTL1 protein is involved in iron storage and metabolism, regulating long-term levels in the brain. As we age, alterations in iron metabolism lead to increased FTL1 in neurons.

By reversing aspects of cognitive aging in mice, this discovery could pave the way for treatments that counteract the effects of FTL1 in the brain, potentially restoring cognitive function in older adults.

“Identifying elements that seem to promote aging while keeping your brain youthful is crucial for overall health and activity as you age. FTL1 appears to be an anti-aging champion,” stated Andrew Steel in BBC Science Focus.

“This is an intriguing preliminary study, but as this research was conducted on mice, we must observe whether the same effects occur in humans.”

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Unlocking Emotions: Uncovering Hidden Indicators of Brain Aging

Posted on August 27, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

As we age, it’s common to perceive others as more content, as revealed by a recent study.

Researchers have discovered that older adults often exhibit a “positive bias” in interpreting facial expressions. This suggests they are more inclined to classify neutral or negative faces as happy rather than sad or angry.

“This indicates they tend to interpret vague or ambiguous expressions as ‘happy’ instead of ‘sad’ or ‘angry,'” noted Dr. Noham Wolpe in an interview with BBC Science Focus. “Crucially, this bias correlates with subtle cognitive decline and alterations in the specific brain circuits responsible for emotional processing and decision-making.”

Using data from over 600 adults, the research team examined this phenomenon through emotion recognition tasks along with brain imaging techniques.

They found structural variations in the hippocampus and amygdala—key regions for memory and emotion—and changes in connectivity with the orbitofrontal cortex, which plays a role in weighing emotional information and guiding decisions.

“These regions form crucial networks that aid in interpreting emotional signals and informing decisions,” Wolpe explained, highlighting how the relationship between the orbitofrontal cortex and amygdala strengthens in adults facing cognitive decline.

“This enhancement may lead them to perceive ambiguous or neutral emotional signals as positive, a phenomenon known as positive bias,” he remarked, noting that the reason behind this increased connectivity associated with cognitive decline is still unknown.

Researchers remain uncertain why the interamygdala connectivity and orbitofrontal cortex, highlighted in red, strengthen in individuals with cognitive decline – Trust: Getty

Although this research is in its nascent stages, its implications are significant. Positive biases might one day serve as early indicators of dementia, as changes in emotional processing frequently precede memory impairment.

“While emotion recognition tests are not yet ready to replace current cognitive assessments, in the future they could be combined with standard screening methods to enhance early detection,” Wolpe stated.

Wolpe and his team are already investigating innovative approaches, such as immersive virtual reality tasks, to better understand how people instinctively respond to emotional signals.

The next objective is to determine if this positive bias can actually forecast cognitive decline. The team has recently concluded a follow-up evaluation of participants in the Cambridge Aging and Neuroscience Research, approximately 12 years after the original assessments. Participant data is also being linked to GP records to monitor dementia diagnoses.

“A crucial takeaway,” Wolpe mentioned, “is that subtle biases in how we perceive others’ expressions can signal early brain changes, long before the typical signs of dementia manifest.”

“Grasping these connections could pave the way for quicker detection and ultimately more effective interventions.”

read more:

About our experts

Noham Wolpe is a senior lecturer at the Sagol School of Neuroscience at Tel Aviv University. His research focuses on understanding the interplay between cognition, mental health, and behavior, both in health and disease.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Heat Waves May Accelerate Aging Process

Posted on August 25, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Air conditioners may help prevent heatwaves from accelerating aging

Sajjad Hussain/AFP via Getty Images

The intensity of heat waves can lead to significant long-term health impacts. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures seems to speed up biological aging in individuals.

“Currently, there are two major studies that highlight the effects of heatwave exposure on aging, focusing on different populations in various countries,” says Paul Beggs from Macquarie University in Australia. “It’s crucial to take heat waves seriously, as we are not only safeguarding our health but also the well-being of those around us.”

Recent findings from Siyi Chen at the University of Hong Kong and her research team reveal important insights. They analyzed medical screening data from around 25,000 adults in Taiwan to determine biological age based on several health indicators, including inflammation, blood pressure, and organ function. This data was then compared with time series data to assess aging rates.

“Physiological changes associated with aging can appear earlier and progress more rapidly in certain individuals,” notes Beggs, who wasn’t part of this research.

The researchers calculated each participant’s cumulative heat wave exposure over two years preceding the medical screening, assessing not just the frequency of heat waves but also the intensity of temperatures experienced. It turned out that the number of heatwave days was a critical factor in the accelerated aging observed in Taiwan’s population. These findings align with another recent study investigating outdoor temperature effects on aging in older adults in the US.

In the Taiwanese population studied, greater aging effects correlated with increased cumulative exposure to heat waves. Specifically, a four-day rise in total heatwave duration linked to an increase in biological age by as much as nine days.

The impact was particularly severe for specific demographics. For instance, manual laborers experienced aging effects that were threefold greater from equivalent heat exposure compared to the broader group. Additionally, residents in rural areas showed more pronounced aging effects, suggesting that access to air conditioning could mitigate the aging repercussions of heat exposure.

Nonetheless, to effectively combat climate change and the escalating frequency of heatwaves, the advantages of air conditioning must be balanced with more sustainable cooling alternatives, warns Beggs. “Air conditioners release heat into the environment, further worsening conditions for individuals lacking such systems,” he states.

Topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Unseen Belly Fat Might Be Accelerating Your Aging Mind — Even If You’re at a Healthy Weight

Posted on August 23, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Recent studies indicate that visceral fat (the concealed belly fat located deep within the abdomen) may contribute to the accelerated aging of your heart.

In contrast to subcutaneous fat, which resides just beneath the skin, visceral fat envelops vital organs like the stomach, liver, and intestines. Individuals with elevated visceral fat levels might present as slimmer or even possess a healthy body mass index (BMI) and weight.

“Staying active is crucial, but our findings reveal that this hidden fat can pose risks even for those who seem healthy,” states Professor Declan Olegan, who led the research.

Two MRI scans, showcasing more visceral fat (red) and subcutaneous fat (blue) in the left subject – Photo credit: AMRA Medical

This research has been published in European Heart Journal. Scientists at the Medical Research Council of London (MRC) Institute of Medical Sciences examined data from 21,241 participants in the UK Biobank.

Whole-body imaging was utilized to analyze fat distribution, along with an in-depth investigation of the heart and blood vessels. Artificial intelligence was implemented to estimate a “heart age” for each participant, reflecting signs of organ aging, such as hardened or inflamed tissue.

The study identified notable differences between genders. Men are prone to accumulating visceral fat in the abdomen, often resulting in expedited heart aging.

Conversely, women have a genetic tendency to store fat around the waist and thighs, resulting in a “pear shape,” which may decelerate heart aging. Elevated estrogen levels in premenopausal women are linked to reduced heart aging, indicating that hormones might play a significant role in organ protection.

Blood analyses revealed a correlation between visceral fat and increased inflammation, suggesting another factor that could contribute to premature aging.

Utilizing whole-body MRI scans to analyze fat distribution and examine the heart in detail (credit: MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences)

Professor Brian Williams, Chief Science Officer and Medical Officer at the British Heart Foundation, stated: “We are already aware that excess visceral fat around the heart and liver can result in increased blood pressure and high cholesterol, which may further accelerate heart and blood vessel aging.”

“The typical pattern of fat distribution observed in women is influenced by estrogen, suggesting that hormones could be pivotal in developing future treatments for cardiac aging.

“Adopting healthier eating habits and increasing physical activity can aid in lowering visceral fat levels.”

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Covid-19 Affects Blood Vessel Aging, Particularly in Women

Posted on August 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The stiffening of arteries with age, exacerbated by Covid-19

Peterschreiber.Media/Alamy

Covid-19 seems to speed up the aging of blood vessels, particularly in women.

The virus has been linked to cardiovascular issues such as heart disease, although the exact mechanisms remain unclear. For further insights, see Rosa Maria Bruno from the University of Parisite and her research team, who studied 2,390 individuals with an average age of 50 across 16 nations, including the UK and US, from September 2020 to February 2022.

Participants included those testing positive for Covid-19 viruses or for antibodies without vaccination, alongside others who were negative for both without past infections.

The health of their arteries was evaluated by measuring the speed of pressure wave transmission between the carotid artery in the neck and the femoral artery in the foot. This assesses arterial stiffness, which naturally increases with age and elevates heart disease risk.

Findings indicated that confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections were related to increased arterial stiffness in women. This correlation appeared to grow with infection severity; for instance, women hospitalized for Covid-19 showed an average arterial age roughly five years greater than their uninfected peers, rising to 7.5 years among those who needed intensive care.

Researchers accounted for other factors influencing arteriosclerosis, such as smoking and obesity.

However, no similar findings were present in men. Earlier studies indicate that women tend to have stronger responses to infections than men, and an inability to modulate immune responses can result in inflammatory damage. Bruno expressed hope for observable gender differences but noted that this study didn’t yield significant ones.

The results also shed light on long Covid, which is more prevalent among women. After six months, arterial stiffness in women showed slight improvement, yet remained notably high in patients with ongoing Covid-19 complications. “Our study demonstrated measurable changes in blood vessels correlating with the symptoms of long Covid patients,” said Bruno.

Some individuals in the uninfected group may have experienced mild infections unbeknownst to them, potentially influencing the study’s validity.

Regardless, Vassilios Vassilio from the University of East Anglia highlighted the study’s robustness, asserting it could aid in identifying individuals affected by long Covid. “This research marks the first large, international multicenter investigation confirming an association between COVID-19 and accelerated vascular aging,” he noted. “The findings enhance comprehension of mechanisms post-Covid-19 syndrome and may pave the way for targeted pharmaceutical approaches.”

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

How Aging Can Still Lead to Good Health for Years

Posted on August 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Alistair Berg/Getty Images

One of the more challenging perspectives on aging is the prospect of enduring poor health later in life. A common narrative is that although life expectancy has increased, the health span has not kept pace.

This perspective is shifting towards a new measurement of our later years, emphasizing “essential ability”—how well individuals can engage in the activities they value rather than solely focusing on chronic disease diagnoses. Viewed this way, those born in affluent nations during the 1950s appear poised to experience the longest and healthiest lifespans compared to any previous generation.

Nonetheless, it remains uncertain whether future generations will benefit similarly, as rising rates of obesity, pollution, and increasingly sedentary lifestyles could negate past advantages.

As of 2023, over three-quarters of the US population is living with at least one chronic condition, with more than half of middle-aged adults experiencing two or more. However, when considering health in terms of intrinsic competence, a diagnosis does not necessarily herald the end of well-being, as effective management can allow individuals to maintain their health.

People born in the 1950s in a rich country are set to lead the longest and healthiest life ever

Unfortunately, the narrative of a chronic disease epidemic has been fueled by certain figures, such as Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who recently reduced funding for research into mRNA vaccine technologies. This funding could critically assist in prolonging lives and mitigating disease impacts.

Nevertheless, there is cause for hope. For instance, GLP-1 medications present a groundbreaking method for managing obesity, and preliminary findings from recent studies indicate promising new avenues for alleviating Alzheimer’s disease.

Such innovations should serve as a reminder to policymakers that if our aim is to extend healthy living, investing in biomedical research is an essential ally, not a detractor.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Breakdown of Protein Production May Contribute to Brain Aging

Posted on August 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Ribosome (center) responsible for synthesizing protein (red) from mRNA. Dark purple strands illustrate transfer RNAs involved in protein production.

The underlying factors contributing to cellular senescence may have been uncovered, revealing insights into various aging processes at the cellular level.

Studies on the brains of a type of freshwater fish known as Killifish reveal that as these fish age, their internal protein factories begin to malfunction, leading to critical protein classes being synthesized abnormally and creating a damaging feedback loop.

This revelation could pave the path for innovative approaches to addressing cognitive decline in aging; Alessandro Cellerino from the Leibniz Institute on Aging in Germany states, “Our focus is more on enhancing cognitive function and preventing cognitive impairment, rather than merely extending life span.”

Within cells, the templates for protein synthesis are encoded in DNA. When proteins are required, these instructions are transcribed into mRNA molecules.

This mRNA is then processed and transported to ribosomes, the cellular factories responsible for protein assembly. Ribosomes attach to and traverse mRNA strands, interpreting the three-letter codons and translating them into amino acid sequences, ultimately forming proteins.

Typically, a greater quantity of mRNA leads to increased protein synthesis. However, numerous studies indicate that this relationship falters in aging human cells, suggesting that protein output may diminish even if mRNA levels remain unchanged.

Through their investigation of aging ribosomes in the brains of Killifish, Cellerino and his team may have identified the cause of this phenomenon. Employing advanced imaging techniques, the researchers captured dynamic movements of ribosomes on constrained mRNA.

The findings revealed that, as the Killifish brain aged, an unexpected buildup of ribosomes occurred, particularly at codons for the amino acids arginine and lysine, leading to stalled ribosome activity and incomplete protein synthesis.

Arginine and lysine are crucial for numerous biomolecules associated with DNA and RNA, and their charged nature suggests that these stallings could significantly disrupt RNA and DNA-binding proteins.

These protein malfunctions pose a serious issue, as they are integral to crucial cellular processes such as RNA synthesis, splicing, and DNA repair.

“Aging is associated with increased DNA damage, reduced RNA production, decreased splicing efficiency, and diminished protein synthesis,” explains Cellerino. “We propose that this ribosome stalling binds these diverse senescence phenomena together.”

Moreover, Cellerino notes that ribosomes themselves harbor RNA-binding proteins, creating a detrimental cycle of stalling that further reduces ribosome availability and, accordingly, protein production.

The pressing question remains whether ribosomal stalling is also present in the human brain. Recent work by Jean Yeo at UC San Diego indicates that RNA-binding proteins diminish in aging human neurons, echoing Cellerino’s findings, although the underlying causes are still uncertain. “This change in RNA-binding proteins could explain their declining levels,” Yeo states.

If these observations hold true for humans, it could herald new strategies for treating age-associated cognitive disorders. Additionally, in Killifish, ribosomal stalling triggers stress signals that instigate inflammatory responses. “The persistent activation of this pathway leads to chronic inflammation,” warns Cellerino. “Chronic inflammation is a significant factor in brain aging.”

Experimental drugs that may mitigate this condition by blocking the associated signaling pathways are on the horizon, according to Cellerino.

“However, it is premature to draw definitive conclusions regarding their potential impact on longevity,” he cautions. This uncertainty arises from the lack of understanding regarding the initiation of ribosomal stalling at specific amino acids, as well as whether the same stalling mechanism exists across all organs.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

A Toxic Social Connection May Be Accelerating Your Aging

Posted on July 26, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The individuals we associate with may influence our health

Rob Wilkinson/Alamy

Many people in our lives may evoke anxiety instead of happiness. Interestingly, these individuals can actually accelerate the aging process.

Psychologists have long understood that robust social connections can enhance our longevity. A study indicates that social isolation may impact mortality rates as much as obesity and inactivity.

Moreover, the quality of our relationships holds equal significance to their quantity. Research from the University of Utah in 2012 revealed that tumultuous relationships—those marked by intense highs and lows—can accelerate telomere shortening, a protective cap on chromosomes. This shortening is a natural part of aging and is linked to health issues like heart disease.

Recently, Byungkyu Lee from New York University and his team explored a more precise measure of aging, investigating how negative social connections influence small chemical changes in DNA known as methylation marks. These changes illustrate how behavior and environment can alter gene function through epigenetics. “As we age, the patterns of these marks change in predictable ways,” states Lee.

The researchers collected saliva samples for epigenetic analysis from 2,232 individuals, who described their relationships with significant members of their social circles and indicated their experiences on a scale of “Never,” “Rarely,” “Sometimes,” or “Frequently.”

Interestingly, many participants labeled these negative influences as “hustlers.” “Over half of adults report having at least one hustler among their close contacts,” notes Lee.

These people seem to have a considerable effect on an individual’s epigenetic markers, with each hustler linked to approximately a 0.5% increase in biological aging, suggesting that individuals with hustlers in their lives tend to have a biological age that is older than their chronological age.

Negative social ties can induce chronic stress responses, and Lee’s team observed elevated markers in those relationships, leading to immune system damage.

“The biological ramifications of a significant number of hustlers in one’s social network are certainly comparable to the differences seen between smokers and non-smokers,” Lee asserts.

This effect was notably pronounced among hustlers who, paradoxically, provided some form of social support. “The same person who comforts you today may criticize you tomorrow, effectively branding you as bad and causing more physiological harm than a relationship that could potentially offer more stability,” explains Lee.

Alex Haslam from the University of Queensland remarked that the findings “align with other studies exploring these dynamics and underscore the importance of social relationships in relation to health.”

He further suggested that the overall sentiment within a group may influence aging even more than specific individual relationships. “For instance, being part of a book club or a choir may mean that it’s my connection to the entire group that plays a role in my health.”

Topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

The pandemic might have accelerated brain aging, even before we contracted Covid-19.

Posted on July 22, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Changes in brain structure over time

Temet/Getty Images

The Covid-19 pandemic may have hastened brain aging, even prior to infection. Studies indicate that early in the outbreak, the brain may have undergone changes equivalent to 5.5 months of aging, potentially attributed to stress and shifts in lifestyle.

Many individuals suffering from long Covid report experiencing brain fog. However, the wider neurological implications of the pandemic are not completely understood a few years post-Covid-19’s emergence.

To investigate this, Ali-Reza Mohammadi-Nejad at the University of Nottingham, along with his team, trained machine learning models using 15,000 brain scans to analyze structural changes related to aging.

A model was then applied to brain scans from 996 volunteers participating in the UK Biobank Study. This comprised 564 individuals who underwent both scans prior to March 2020, which acted as the control group. The remaining 432 volunteers had one scan before March 2020 and another later, with scans averaging three years apart and a minimum gap of two years.

The research revealed that the pandemic may have induced an acceleration of brain aging by 5.5 months, as evidenced by structural changes in both white and gray matter. This effect was also observed in individuals who had recorded Covid-19 infections as part of the Biobank project.

This accelerated aging effect was notably more significant among men and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. However, the results may not be generalizable, as biobank participants typically exhibit better health, higher income, and less ethnic diversity than other demographics within the UK.

Researchers propose that these alterations might have been driven by the isolation and stress of lockdowns, alongside changes in lifestyle factors like physical activity and alcohol use during that period.

In their study, the authors indicate that these structural brain changes could be “at least partially reversible,” while also acknowledging limitations stemming from the study’s UK-based participant pool, suggesting that the findings may not accurately represent lockdowns’ impact elsewhere. “Our conclusions may actually underestimate the pandemic’s effects on more vulnerable populations,” Mohammadi-Nejad asserts.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

New Study Unveils Countries with the Slowest and Fastest Aging Rates

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A recent study reveals that Denmark boasts the most favorable environmental, social, and political conditions for aging slowly and maintaining a healthier lifestyle.

Published in Natural Medicine, this research pinpointed the elements influencing the biological processes that dictate healthy aging. An international team of researchers examined data from over 160,000 individuals across 40 nations, assessing how various factors influence aging worldwide.

To establish a baseline for the average aging rate, researchers utilized a measurement known as the “Biobiural Age Gap” clock. This AI model estimates the disparity between an individual’s chronological age and their predicted age based on surrounding risk factors. For instance, a 50-year-old person might be predicted to have a biological age of 55 based on these factors, resulting in a five-year age gap.

The findings revealed that among the four continents studied—Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America—European individuals showcased the highest levels of healthy aging. Conversely, in lower-income nations, accelerated aging was prevalent among older individuals.

“This study is significant as it reconceptualizes aging as influenced by not just biology and lifestyle, but also broader environmental and sociopolitical factors,” stated Morten Scheibye-Knudsen, an associate professor of aging at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark, who was not involved in the research, in comments to BBC Science Focus.

Egypt recorded the fastest rate of aging, with individuals showing an average biological age 4.75 years older than their chronological age. Following Egypt were South Africa and certain South American nations. Within Europe, Eastern and Southern regions displayed more rapid aging trends.

In contrast, Denmark demonstrated the slowest aging rate, with an average biological age 2.35 years younger than the actual age. The Netherlands and Finland followed in terms of healthy aging.

Key Factors for Healthy Aging

What makes Denmark and much of Northern and Western Europe conducive to healthy aging? Researchers identified crucial factors including environmental elements like air quality alongside social factors such as gender equality and socioeconomic status.

Interestingly, significant influences were also found in sociopolitical conditions. Healthy aging is closely related to political representation, freedom of parties, democratic elections, and voting rights.

“The link between politics and accelerated aging presents an intriguing puzzle in this study,” commented Scheibye-Knudsen. “Possible mechanisms include heightened chronic stress responses due to anxiety and healthcare disparities.”

This study indicated that individuals with accelerated aging face challenges in completing daily tasks and are eight times more likely to experience cognitive decline.

While the study spanned four continents, it primarily represented limited areas of Africa, focusing on Egypt and South Africa.

Researchers stress that their findings illustrate correlations rather than causative relationships. Nonetheless, they advocate for urgent action to address global health disparities.

“Remarkably, risk factors outweigh protective ones, indicating that individuals in low-income countries experience significantly accelerated aging irrespective of their socioeconomic status,” noted Scheibye-Knudsen.

“This reinforces the compelling case for investing in universal initiatives, such as access to education and healthcare, to enhance the health of populations.”

Read more:

About Our Experts

Dr. Morten Scheibye-Knudsen serves as an associate professor of aging at the University of Copenhagen and leads the Scheibye-Knudsen research group. He is also the president of the Nordic Aging Association.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Scientists Say Learning Music Can Reverse Brain Aging, Even in Older Adults

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Recent research indicates that older adults who play musical instruments tend to have healthier brains.

One investigation examined the impacts of decades of music practice, while another focused on learning new instruments later in life.

In both studies, engaging in music was linked to better brain health and a decrease in age-related cognitive decline.

The first study was published in PLOS Biology and involved collaboration between Canadian and Chinese researchers. They recruited 50 adults with an average age of 65, half of whom had been playing instruments for at least 32 years, while the others had no musical experience.

Additionally, they included 24 young adults with an average age of 23 who had no musical training.

The researchers utilized magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assess blood flow in the brains of the participants.

During the scans, participants listened to a recording of speakers amid background noise, where 50 other voices were present, and were tasked with identifying what the main speaker was saying.

The scans revealed that older musicians’ brains responded to challenges similarly to those of the younger participants.

Nonetheless, older adults showed signs of cognitive decline. Specifically, musicians exhibited strong neural connections on the right side of the brain that non-musicians lacked, which could place additional strain on their brain.

“The brains of older musicians remain finely tuned due to years of training, so they don’t need to play well-tuned instruments at high volumes,” stated co-author Dr. Yi from the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

“Our findings suggest that musical experience helps mitigate the additional cognitive strain typically associated with age-related challenges, particularly in noisy environments.”

A 2025 YouGov poll revealed that 25% of UK adults can play at least one instrument, with the guitar being the second most favored instrument after the piano.

As individuals age, cognitive functions such as memory, learning, and perception often deteriorate, eventually contributing to dementia.

However, researchers posit that cognitive reserve—the brain’s capability to manage damage and decline—can enhance resilience against this deterioration.

The precise mechanisms remain unclear, as noted by Morten Scheibye-Knudsen, Associate Professor of Aging at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark, in an interview with BBC Science Focus.

Some studies suggest that “exercising” the brain through activities like playing instruments, learning new languages, and solving puzzles can improve brain health, but results from other research have been inconsistent.

“Overall, we advocate for brain training, but the evidence is not conclusive,” Scheibye-Knudsen remarked.

Conversely, another recent study, published in Imaging Neuroscience, indicated that musical practice can enhance brain health, even when individuals start playing in later life.

According to a 2024 poll from the University of Michigan, 17% of US adults aged 50-80 engage in playing instruments at least several times a year – Credit: DMP via Getty

Researchers at Kyoto University in Japan continued previous studies that included 53 elderly individuals (average age 73) who took music lessons for four months. Initial findings indicated no significant differences in brain health among participants.

Four years later, the same participants underwent MRI scans (13 of whom had maintained their music practice).

Those who ceased playing their newly learned instruments showed declines in memory performance, with a noticeable reduction in the volume of the putamen—a brain region associated with motor function, learning, and memory.

However, those who continued playing music over the four years exhibited no cognitive decline.

Scheibye-Knudsen noted that the study demonstrates that “playing an instrument not only helps preserve cognitive function as we age, but it may also directly contribute to maintaining the structural integrity of the brain.”

He added, “Engaging in music beyond what this study covered offers additional advantages, such as enhanced social interaction.”

“I encourage people to start making music; it’s never too late to learn.”

Read more:

About Our Experts

Morten Scheibye-Knudsen is an associate professor of aging at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark, and leads the Scheibye-Knudsen Research Group. He also serves as the president of the Nordic Aging Association.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

The Impact of Sleep on the Aging Process

Posted on July 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Aging often impacts sleep, leading to challenges as we grow older. Factors such as changes in circadian rhythms, increased nighttime bathroom visits, anxiety, and chronic health conditions can all compromise sleep quality.

Yet, let’s examine the flip side: the influence of sleep on the aging process.

Despite bold assertions from various hyperbaric oxygen therapy centers, nothing can halt our body’s natural aging. However, a closer look at the physiological changes that occur during sleep reveals that cultivating healthy sleep habits can help mitigate the effects of time on our bodies.

What occurs when we sleep?

Our bodies engage in powerful recovery processes during sleep to restore, reset, and rejuvenate organs and cells. Each night serves as a mini-reboot: muscles undergo repair, hormone levels stabilize, and the brain executes a version of waste removal.

Key changes that happen in the body during sleep include:

• Integration of emotional and procedural (long-term, implicit) memory during REM sleep.
• The brain experiences a neurochemical reset, with significant reductions in dopamine and serotonin levels during slumber.
• Muscle repair promotes the release of growth hormone, restoration of glycogen levels, and the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines to assist muscle recovery.
• Hormones like melatonin are produced, while others are regulated; for instance, cortisol (the “stress” hormone) decreases, and leptin (which controls hunger) is maintained.

Dive into the physiological changes that occur during sleep.

Why is sleep increasingly crucial as we age?

Waste removal
The Glymphatic System operates while we sleep to clear neurotoxic waste, such as beta-amyloid. This process becomes increasingly critical with age. The National Library of Medicine states, “The aging process involves a range of neurobiological changes in the brain, including the accumulation of toxic proteins like beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles.”*

Immune support
As the immune system naturally declines, deep sleep becomes vital for enhancing immune cell activity, thereby supporting our immunity.

Cardiovascular health
Those with a Fitbit will attest that heart rates drop during sleep, allowing blood pressure to lower, which in turn gives the cardiovascular system a chance to rest.

Insulin sensitivity
Sleep quality, duration, and timing all influence insulin sensitivity; inadequate sleep can increase insulin resistance and elevate the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.**

Maximizing quality sleep

Hestens, a Swedish bed manufacturer, recognizes the significance of a good night’s sleep. Since 1852, luxury brands have been crafting handmade beds, with each taking up to 600 hours to create using only natural materials.

“Miracles happen while we sleep,” Hestens states. “It’s the sleep that makes a difference. This is a natural process that cannot be replicated or bought over the counter. You can’t cheat your way to perfect sleep, but understanding its importance and implementing good practices can improve your chances of a restful night.”

For more on the advantages of sleep and to explore the full collection of beds and accessories, visit Hestens’ website.

Book local sleep spa bed tests online at www.hastens.com or visit your nearest certified retailer.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Nightmares Linked to Accelerated Biological Aging and Increased Mortality Risk

Posted on June 23, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Strategies to Prevent Nightmares, Such as Avoiding Scary Movies

Andrii Lysenko/Getty Images

Experiencing nightmares weekly may accelerate aging and significantly increase the chances of early death.

“Individuals with more frequent nightmares experience faster aging and a higher risk of premature death,” states Abidemi Otaiku from Imperial College London.

In collaboration with his team, Otaiku examined data from over 183,000 adults aged between 26 to 86 who participated in several studies, initially self-reporting their nightmare frequency over a span of 1.5 to 19 years.

The findings revealed that individuals reporting weekly nightmares are over three times more likely to die before reaching 70 compared to those who do not experience nightmares.

Moreover, the researchers noted that the frequency of nightmares is a more potent predictor of preterm birth than factors such as smoking, obesity, poor diet, or inadequate physical activity. Otaiku presented these findings at the European Neurological Society Conference 2025 held in Helsinki, Finland, on June 23rd.

The team additionally assessed participants’ biological ages by measuring telomere lengths, small DNA sequences at the ends of chromosomes that shorten with each cell division; short telomeres linked to premature aging. This segment of the study also included approximately 2,400 children aged 8 to 10, while adults contributed further biological age data using epigenetic clocks.

According to Otaiku, their research established a consistent connection between frequent nightmares and accelerated aging across various ages, genders, and ethnic backgrounds. “Even in childhood, those with frequent nightmares exhibit shorter telomeres, indicating faster cellular aging,” he remarked. In adults, this accelerated biological aging accounts for roughly 40% of their heightened risk of death.

Regarding the reasoning behind this association, Otaiku suggests two main factors. The first is the elevated levels of the stress hormone cortisol triggered by nightmares. These levels are linked to faster cellular aging. “Nightmares elicit a more intense stress response than what is typically experienced upon waking, often rousing us with pounding hearts,” he explained.

The second factor involves sleep disruption, which hinders the body’s overnight cellular repair processes. Poor sleep quality is associated with an increased risk of various health issues, including heart disease.

For those wishing to reduce their occurrence of nightmares, Otaiku suggests straightforward strategies, such as avoiding scary movies and addressing mental health issues like anxiety.

“This is a fascinating finding with a number of biological underpinnings,” said Guy Restiner from the NHS Foundation Trust at Guy and St. Thomas. However, he emphasized that further research is necessary to identify causal relationships, noting that nightmares can be associated with various medical conditions and medications that may impact the findings as individuals age.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Taurine Might Not Play a Significant Role in Aging After All

Posted on June 6, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Taurine supplements are seen as potentially effective in slowing aging, but this may not hold true

Shutterstock / Eugeniusz Dudzinski

While it was previously thought that taurine, an amino acid, diminishes with age, research in animals suggested that taurine supplements might help slow down the aging process. New studies, however, indicate this decline is not consistent. In fact, taurine levels often increase with age, indicating that low nutrient levels might not be the primary factor driving aging.

Earlier research indicated that taurine levels decrease in aging men, with those exhibiting higher taurine levels at age 60 experiencing better health outcomes. This correlation suggests low taurine levels might contribute to aging, supported by evidence that taurine supplements can extend the lifespans of mice and monkeys.

The challenge lies in the fact that taurine levels can fluctuate due to various factors, including illness, stress, and dietary habits. Thus, a reduction in this vital amino acid may not be directly linked to the aging process. Maria Emilia Fernandez and her team from The National Institute of Aging in Maryland assessed taurine levels in 742 individuals aged 26 to 100. The cohort consisted of roughly equal numbers of men and women, with no major health issues and multiple blood samples taken between January 2006 and October 2018.

On average, women aged 100 had taurine levels that were nearly 27% higher than those aged 26, while men aged 30 to 97 exhibited an approximate 6% increase. Similar trends were noted among 32 monkeys sampled at ages ranging from 7 to 32 years, where female monkeys saw taurine levels rise by an average of 72% and male monkeys by 27% between ages 5 and 30.

These results underscore that taurine levels may not be a reliable indicator of aging. Importantly, taurine concentrations vary widely among individuals and can change over time due to external factors, according to Fernandez.

Nevertheless, some individuals may still find taurine supplementation beneficial. Fernandez highlights research indicating its potential to help regulate blood glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes or those who are obese. However, the question of whether taurine can slow aging in otherwise healthy individuals remains unanswered.

Vijay Yadav from Rutgers University and his colleagues are currently leading clinical trials on taurine supplementation in middle-aged adults. “We aim to conclude the trial by the end of 2025,” he states. “Our goal is to produce robust data to determine if taurine supplementation can decelerate human aging or enhance health and fitness.”

The article was revised on June 5th, 2025

Vijay Yadav’s affiliation has been corrected

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Study Reveals That Middle-Aged Women Who Drink Caffeinated Coffee May Experience Healthier Aging

Posted on June 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A recent study conducted by researchers at Harvard Chan Public Health indicates that caffeine and regular coffee consumption during middle age are modestly and positively linked to various aspects of healthy aging in women. However, no notable correlation was found with tea or caffeinated coffee, whereas increased cola intake was associated with healthy aging and a lower likelihood of related health issues.

Mahdavi et al. Our aim was to explore the relationship between caffeine intake in middle age and the chances of healthy aging in older women participating in nurse health studies. Image credit: Sci.News.

“While earlier studies have linked coffee to specific health outcomes, this research is the first to evaluate coffee’s impact on multiple aspects of aging over three decades,” stated Dr. Sarah Mahadhabi, a researcher at Harvard Chan School of Public Health and the University of Toronto.

“The findings indicate that coffee may uniquely support aging processes that foster both mental and physical well-being.”

“Our study boasts several significant strengths, including a substantial sample size and three decades of follow-up. Moreover, we assessed various elements of longevity and healthy aging, in conjunction with comprehensive data on nutrition and lifestyle habits collected every four years after the study began.”

The research encompassed 47,513 women from the Nurses Health Survey, utilizing dietary and health data gathered since 1984.

Researchers evaluated caffeine consumption using a validated food frequency questionnaire, focusing on major caffeine sources like coffee, tea, cola, and caffeinated coffee.

Healthy aging was characterized as living to age 70 and above, free from 11 major chronic diseases, preserving physical abilities, maintaining mental health, exhibiting no cognitive impairment, and having no memory complaints.

Following 30 years of monitoring, researchers assessed how the probability of healthy aging varied with each additional 80 mg of caffeine consumed daily by the participants.

They also examined specific beverage types, including coffee, tea, caffeinated coffee (per 8-ounce cup), and cola (per 12-ounce glass).

The preliminary analyses identified other factors that might influence healthy aging, such as body weight, smoking habits, alcohol consumption, physical activity levels, educational attainment, and protein intake.

By 2016, 3,706 women in the study met all criteria for being classified as healthy agers.

Women aged between 45-60 typically consumed an average of 315 mg of caffeine daily, with over 80% of that derived from regular coffee consumption.

For those in the Healthy Agers Group, each additional cup of coffee per day was linked to a 2% to 5% increased likelihood of aging well, up to about 5 small cups per day, or approximately 2.5 standard cups by today’s measurements.

Researchers discovered no significant correlation between the consumption of decaffeinated coffee or tea and an elevated likelihood of healthy aging.

Importantly, for each additional glass of soda with caffeine, the chances of healthy aging decreased by 20-26%, indicating that not all caffeine sources are beneficial.

“While these findings are preliminary, they suggest that small, consistent habits can profoundly influence long-term health,” Dr. Mahadhabi noted.

“Moderate coffee intake can provide a range of protective benefits when coupled with other healthy practices, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking.”

“This study expands on previous evidence linking coffee consumption to healthy aging, but the benefits of coffee are relatively modest compared to the impact of an overall healthy lifestyle, warranting further investigation.”

The findings were presented at the Survey results on June 2nd during the Nutrition 2025 annual meeting hosted by the American Nutrition Association.

____

Sarah Mahadabi et al. Caffeine intake and healthy aging in women. Nutrition 2025 Summary #P22-039-25

Source: www.sci.news

Understanding Why Aging Makes It Harder to Stand Up: The Science of Stiff Joints and Tight Muscles

Posted on May 24, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

As we age, flexibility tends to decrease. Clinicians utilize tests like “Sit down and stand” to assess older adults’ ability to rise from a chair, helping to identify risks associated with falls and frailty.

There are numerous factors contributing to decreased mobility as we age. Tendons might cause the joints to tighten, impacting the cartilage between them. Additionally, ligaments typically weaken, and muscle tightness around the joints, along with reduced synovial fluid, can exacerbate the situation.

Our muscle mass doesn’t just stay the same; it diminishes with age, particularly the quadriceps in the front of the thighs, which are crucial for standing up from a chair.

The encouraging news is that these changes can be mitigated. Engaging in regular physical activity is believed to slow down the loss of flexibility while also enhancing bone density, heart health, and mental well-being.

Studies reveal that older adults who remain physically active can achieve a broader range of motion compared to their sedentary peers. The NHS guidelines recommend that older individuals engage in strength, balance, and flexibility exercises at least twice weekly, in addition to 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity weekly (or 75 minutes of vigorous activity if they’re already active).

If you do exercise regularly, don’t forget to incorporate stretching. Yoga can be beneficial if you’re able to practice it, but even simple stretches can enhance flexibility and be performed while watching TV or chatting on the phone! It’s advisable to consult someone trained to demonstrate proper stretching techniques.

Your diet also plays a crucial role. Consuming adequate proteins helps in muscle building, particularly with nutrients like calcium and vitamin D that support bone density.

While aging does lead to less flexibility and makes standing up more challenging, there are proactive steps you can take to counteract these effects!

Read more:

Questioner: Alexandra Wereck, Cambria

To submit your question, please email Questions@sciencefocus.com (remember to include your name and location)

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Studies Suggest Common Vitamin Supplements May Help Slow Aging

Posted on May 23, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Recent studies indicate that daily vitamin D intake can assist in managing the effects of aging.

Research has shown that supplementing with vitamin D for four years could potentially offset the aging process by about three years.

Prior studies have suggested that vitamin D supplements may help mitigate some prominent aging signs linked to various age-related diseases, such as cancer, heart disease, and dementia.

To explore this hypothesis, researchers from Mass General Brigham and Georgia Medical University examined the findings of previous trials. In this experiment, over 55 women and more than 50 men participated, taking either Vitamin D, Omega 3, or a placebo daily for five years.

The recent study assessed telomere length, concentrating on 1,054 participants who underwent specific tests at the beginning of the trial, as well as in their second and fourth years.

Telomeres are repetitive DNA sequences that protect chromosomes. Professor Morten Schiebye-Knudsen from the University of Copenhagen, who was not involved in the study, noted in BBC Science Focus Magazine.

Telomeres safeguard chromosome ends and prevent fusion or degradation – Credit: Getty Images/Knopprit

“Consider them like the plastic tips on shoelaces. They prevent chromosomes from fraying and sticking to each other, which helps maintain genetic stability during cell division,” he explained.

With each cell division, telomeres shorten slightly. If they become too short, the cell loses its ability to divide, leading to cell dysfunction.

The study found that participants taking vitamin D exhibited significantly reduced telomere shortening, effectively preventing nearly three years of aging.

This finding could offer valuable insights into promoting longer health spans, as telomere shortening is linked to various age-related diseases.

“I often refer to these cells as angry old men. They lose functionality, become inactive, and worsen over time, negatively impacting their environment,” Schiebye-Knudsen remarked.

“Telomere shortening may lead to older, more dysfunctional cells, resulting in increased inflammation in our bodies, particularly in rapidly dividing cells, like those in bone marrow, skin, and hair.”

About our experts

Morten Schiebye-Knudsen serves as an associate professor at the Faculty of Cellular Molecular Medicine at the University of Copenhagen.

read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Study: Eating Methyladaptogen-Rich Foods May Lower Epigenetic Aging Indicators

Posted on May 22, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

As we age, the likelihood of developing chronic non-infectious diseases increases, necessitating interventions that target the aging process. One of the measures used to assess biological aging in these interventions is an algorithm that analyzes DNA methylation patterns, referred to as epigenetic clocks. This new research focuses on identifying beneficial nutritional components such as green tea, oolong tea, turmeric, rosemary, garlic, and berries.

Villanueva et al. suggest that targeted food choices may help slow the aging process. Image credit: Sci.News.

“We have observed numerous individuals struggling with their health,” stated Dr. Jamie L. Villanueva, a researcher at Washington University and the National University of Natural Medicine.

“The DNA methylation pattern, which acts as a chemical marker in DNA, can reveal whether a person is aging faster or slower than anticipated.”

“This research employed Horvath’s epigenetic clock, a widely recognized method, to assess changes in epigenetic age.”

Researchers studied healthy men aged 50-72 who had previously undertaken an 8-week program featuring a plant-based, nutritious diet, complemented by guidance on exercise, sleep, and stress management.

The team investigated individual dietary variations to understand why some participants exhibited greater improvements in their epigenetic age compared to others.

The findings showed that participants consuming higher amounts of methyladaptogenic foods—like turmeric, rosemary, garlic, berries, green tea, and oolong tea—experienced a notable reduction in their epigenetic age.

These positive effects remained significant even after accounting for weight changes and initial epigenetic ages, indicating a direct impact of the foods on aging markers.

“In hierarchical linear regression analyses, foods assessed as polyphenol modulators of DNA methylation, previously categorized as methyladaptogens, demonstrated a significant linear association with changes in epigenetic age after controlling for baseline epigenetic age acceleration and alterations in body weight,” the researchers explained.

The natural compounds in methyladaptogenic foods are known to influence gene behavior through their effects on DNA methylation.

Prior research has indicated that these compounds may support healthy aging and lower the risk of conditions like heart disease and cognitive decline.

Though this study involved a relatively small cohort of middle-aged men, it contributes to the expanding body of global research suggesting that diets rich in polyphenols found in vegetables, fruits, and tea are linked to slower aging.

The results reinforce previous studies on Mediterranean and traditional Japanese diets, renowned for their health benefits.

“Future studies should involve a larger and more diverse population and explore these findings using updated tools for measuring epigenetic aging,” the author noted.

“Based on current findings, this study underscores practical, food-based strategies that can help mitigate epigenetic aging and promote long-term health.”

Study published in the journal aging.

____

Jamie L. Villanueva et al. 2025. Dietary relationships with epigenetic age decline: secondary data analysis of methylated diet and lifestyle studies. aging 17(4):994-1010; doi:10.18632/aging.206240

Source: www.sci.news

Key Elements of Dark Chocolate Might Promote Healthy Aging

Posted on May 1, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Here’s a rewritten version of your content while preserving the HTML structure:

<div id="">
    <p>
        <figure class="ArticleImage">
            <div class="Image__Wrapper">
                <img class="Image" alt="" width="1350" height="900" src="https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg" sizes="(min-width: 1288px) 837px, (min-width: 1024px) calc(57.5vw + 55px), (min-width: 415px) calc(100vw - 40px), calc(70vw + 74px)" srcset="https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=300 300w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=400 400w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=500 500w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=600 600w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=700 700w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=800 800w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=837 837w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=900 900w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=1003 1003w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=1100 1100w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=1200 1200w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=1300 1300w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=1400 1400w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=1500 1500w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=1600 1600w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=1674 1674w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=1700 1700w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=1800 1800w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=1900 1900w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/01134232/SEI_249423817.jpg?width=2006 2006w" loading="eager" fetchpriority="high" data-image-context="Article" data-image-id="2478769" data-caption="Dark chocolate is a particularly rich source of theobromine" data-credit="Studio-N/Shutterstock"/>
            </div>
            <figcaption class="ArticleImageCaption">
                <div class="ArticleImageCaption__CaptionWrapper">
                    <p class="ArticleImageCaption__Title">Dark chocolate is a notable source of theobromine, a beneficial chemical</p>
                    <p class="ArticleImageCaption__Credit">Studio-N/Shutterstock</p>
                </div>
            </figcaption>
        </figure>
    </p>
    <p>While chocolate may be associated with anti-aging benefits, it’s wise to be cautious before indulging. The beneficial compounds are predominantly found in dark chocolate, and the overall health impact of chocolate consumption remains uncertain.</p>
    <p>"There are numerous aspects of dark chocolate, each with its pros and cons," says <a href="https://profiles.ucl.ac.uk/90100-ramy-saad/publications">Rumy Sars</a> from University College London.</p>

    <p>The substance in question, theobromine, is famously known to be toxic to dogs. However, that's just one aspect...</p>
</div>

Feel free to modify any specific terms or phrases further!

Source: www.newscientist.com

She collaborated in Harvard’s laboratory on reversing the aging process.

Posted on April 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Changes in the atmosphere

Petrova’s return flight from Paris landed in Boston on the evening of February 16th. As the plane sat on the tarmac, she exchanged messages with Dr. Peshkin regarding the handling of a package at customs. However, the passengers had already disembarked the plane, so Petrova cut the conversation short.

Initially, Petrova felt her re-entry was normal. At Passport Control, officials verified her J-1 visa sponsored by Harvard and recognized her as a biomedical researcher. Her passport was stamped, and she was acknowledged by the state.

As she made her way to retrieve her package, Border Patrol officers approached her and requested to search her suitcase. Her biggest concern was that the embryo sample inside would be compromised, as RNA is easily damaged. She admitted her lack of knowledge about the rules. The officer, in a polite manner, informed her that she was allowed to proceed.

Subsequently, another officer entered the room, and the tone of the conversation shifted, according to Petrova. This officer asked detailed questions about Petrova’s work and travel history in Europe. Petrova was then informed that her visa had been revoked and was questioned about her fear of being deported to Russia.

“Yes, I’m afraid to return to Russia,” she expressed, as per a Homeland Security Department transcript provided by her attorney. “I fear that the Russian Federation will harm me for protesting against them.”

Petrova’s lawyer, Greg Romanovsky, acknowledged her violation of customs regulations but argued that it was a minor offense punishable by forfeiture and fines.

Romanovsky emphasized the need for agents to establish a valid basis for revoking her visa and contended that violation of customs regulations was not sufficient justification. Lucas Gattentag, a professor at Stanford Law School, concurred and criticized the government for creating an improper immigration status that led to Petrova’s detention.

In February, customs officials detained Petrova at Logan International Airport in Boston for not declaring a sample of frog embryos.
credit…M. Scott Brauer of the New York Times

A DHS spokesperson questioned the cancellation of Petrova’s visa and cited the discovery of Petri dishes and vials of embryonic stem cells in the package without proper authorization during a dog inspection.

The spokesperson asserted that individuals were detained legally after lying to federal officers about bringing biological materials into the country. Petrova’s cell phone messages indicated intentions to smuggle materials through customs without declaration, demonstrating a deliberate violation of the law.

Following the cancellation of Petrova’s visa by Border Patrol agents, she became an undocumented immigrant amidst the immigration policies of the Trump administration. She was held at the Richwood Detention Center, awaiting a hearing to present her asylum case before an immigration judge.

Romanovsky filed a petition for her release in federal court, urging ICE to grant her parole. He pleaded for compassion, suggesting that under different circumstances, Petrova would have been released much earlier.

Petrova spent last month in a dormitory with bunk beds, coping with the cold and receiving limited outdoor time. She shared her observations on the diverse group of women around her, highlighting the harsh conditions they all experienced.

She challenged her preconceived notions of the US compared to her experiences in Russia, expressing disbelief at the treatment she and others received. Petrova emphasized the need for basic rights for all individuals, even immigrants under detention.

Empty bench

Source: www.nytimes.com

New Study Finds that Regularly Reading Articles Can Help Protect Your Brain from Aging

Posted on March 8, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Are you looking to keep your mind sharp as you age? One secret could be as simple as regularly exercising your brain with mathematics and reading comprehension, whether it’s at work, at home, or even while reading this article.

A groundbreaking new study led by Professor Eric Hanushek of Stanford University suggests that engaging in mathematics and reading can help prevent age-related cognitive decline. The research shows that individuals who regularly practice these skills do not experience significant declines in cognitive abilities over time, whether they are reading emails, doing calculations, or reading articles like this one. This challenges the notion that cognitive decline is inevitable with age.

The study reveals that cognitive skills typically peak in a person’s 40s before slowly declining. However, those who consistently engage in mathematics and reading, whether at work or in their daily activities, show no decline at all.

“Our findings indicate a significant increase in average skills in literacy and numeracy until the 40s. After this point, there is a slight decrease in literacy skills and a more noticeable decline in numeracy,” the study notes.

This study may inspire you to tackle your taxes – Credit: Skynesher

These findings challenge previous studies that suggested cognitive decline begins in early adulthood. Unlike past research that compared different age groups at one point in time, this study followed the same individuals over several years, providing a more accurate understanding of how cognitive abilities change with age.

Hanushek and his team propose that what was previously thought to be age-related cognitive decline might actually be due to differences in skill levels between generations rather than the natural effects of aging itself.

By analyzing data from language and mathematics assessments in the German population aged 16-65 and retesting the same group 3.5 years later, researchers found that women’s math skills declined significantly over time, indicating potential gender disparities. Further exploration of these differences is planned for future studies.

For more information, visit:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Severe fever can accelerate biological aging in elderly individuals

Posted on February 26, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Woman drinks water during heat waves in French Hierrez

Magali Cohen/Hans Lucas/AFP Getty Images

Extreme fever appears to speed up biological aging in older adults, suggesting that it may increase the risk of age-related diseases.

“This is one of the first large-scale studies linking long-term heat exposure to biological aging in humans,” he says. Eun Young Choi At the University of Southern California. “Elderly people who live in areas with biologically extreme heat in cooler areas.”

Choi and her colleagues analyzed genetic data extracted from blood samples collected by other researchers from 3,600 people in the US in 2006-7. At the time, they were all over 56 years old.

They estimated the biological age of each participant using three so-called epigenetic clocks, including seeing patterns of chemical tags called methyl groups on DNA. These patterns change as we age, and such changes are associated with age-related diseases.

The researchers also looked at daily temperature measurements taken within a few kilometres of where participants lived for six years before blood samples were collected.

They found that every 200 days of six years when participants were exposed to daily maximum temperatures of at least 32.2°C (90°), biological age was on average up to 3.5 months old, and on average up to 3.5 months of age than those in cooler areas. That number depends on which watch was used.

“This refers to heat exposure increasing the rate of biological aging,” he says. Austin Argencheri At Harvard University, where he was not involved in the research.

Previous studies on the Taiwanese and German people have also found a link between extreme heat exposure and biological aging.

However, epigenetic watches do not fully capture the aging process or the risk of people's illnesses, says Argentieri. “More jobs that can link both extreme heat exposure, biological aging from these watches, age-related diseases, mortality and the effects on life expectancy itself will help us drive home what we need to take away from now on.”

Furthermore, the study did not consider access to air conditioners or the duration of time participants spent outdoors, so individual exposure changes to heat exposure, says Argentieri. The team controlled for other factors such as age, gender, race, wealth, ethnicity, smoking status, alcohol consumption, obesity, and physical activity.

Furthermore, research should investigate whether results will be translated to younger people or to people living in different countries where people may have different approaches to keeping people cool, says Argentieri.

Identifying the people who are at the lowest risk of aging fastest due to extreme heat could help policymakers develop and deploy measures to protect them, he says.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Omega-3 Supplements may slow down the process of biological aging

Posted on February 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Omega-3 Supplements may be an easy way to slowden aging

EVGENIIA SIANKOVSKAIA/Getty Images

Omega 3 supplements every day, especially when combined with vitamin D and exercise, seems to slow the biological aging of the elderly.

We already knew that “good” fat, which is seen in seeds, nuts, and fish can enhance immunity, heart health, and brain function.

They are also linked to changes “Epigi Nete” markerDNA chemical tags that change the activity of the gene and the behavior of cells. This suggests that Omega 3 reduces pace Biological agingIn many cases, it is defined as a measure of how fast someone has deteriorated, compared to the body of the general group.

To explore this further Heike Bischoff-Ferrari The University of Zurich and her colleagues divided 777 Switzerland, 70 and 91, into eight groups. They also wanted to know how Omega-3 works along with vitamin D supplements and exercise.

“Omega-3 plays on multiple routes of aging, such as anti-inflammatoryness. Similarly, vitamin D and exercise have multiple advantages,” says Bischoff-Ferrari. “Did we think that there are additional advantages if you play in each of these differential routes?”

Some participants had already taken these supplements at the start of the research or doing strength training. According to Bischoff-Ferrari, it was not ethical to stop exercising or stop taking specific supplements, so it was allowed to continue.

In addition to the existing lifestyle habits, each group was told to have a variety of combinations of one grams of Omega-3, placebo tablets, and 2000 international unit vitamin D. Muscle training three times a week.

For example, some people have been asked to take 3 tablets of omega, take vitamin D supplements, and do additional strength training, or have been asked to take vitamin D with strength training. I didn't take Omega 3.

At the start of the research, researchers estimated the biological age of the participants using the “Epi Nete Watch”, which was previously developed by teams and other researchers. These analyzed a DNA marker called methyl group in a blood sample that generally decrease with age and impairs cell function.

Through the same three years later, the scientists have been told to take Omega 3, aging only about three months less than employees who are only given placebo pills. I discovered that there was no. They explained the factors that could affect the results, such as the actual age, gender, weight, and height of the participants.

“This is today's biggest test that suggests that simple supplements contribute to the slowdown of biological aging,” says Bischoff-Ferrari.

Furthermore, those who took Omega-3 with vitamin D and did less tension training compared to those who did not introduce any of these habits as part of the trial. “The effect was somewhat remarkable, and it was almost four months of rejuvenation,” says Bischoff-Ferrari.

These effects may seem small, but it may be important for some people. Richard Siou At King Scarage Rondon. “This is more important for the elderly, because it may be more likely to decrease in age in about three months,” he says.

However, epigenetic watches are not a complete scale of biological aging. “Just because DNA's biomarker indicates that you resemble a young person does not necessarily mean that you are healthy in some way,” says SIOW.

Further research says that it is necessary to evaluate what changes in measures such as cognitive, motor skills, and heart health mean. The Bischoff-Ferrari team analyzes participants' data on these results.

Another restriction of this study was that the participants were relatively healthy and active, and there was almost no lack of vitamin D. Bischoff-Ferrari says that there is a need for a further research in which people who live in other countries without these characteristics and young people in other countries are involved.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Traveling through space accelerates muscle aging greatly

Posted on July 26, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

The muscle cells briefly stayed with astronauts on the International Space Station

Shutterstock / Artsiom P

After a week in the microgravity of space, muscle cells age and their gene activity becomes similar to that of cells that have aged for years on Earth, a finding that may explain why muscle function is impaired during space travel.

We know that astronauts are at risk of losing bone density and muscle mass due to the extremely low gravity of space. Gun Fan Researchers from Stanford University in California and their colleagues analyzed the effects of microgravity on the genetics of muscle cells.

Source: www.newscientist.com

You may not be consuming enough fiber, which could be accelerating the aging process

Posted on June 28, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

It has been suggested by expert nutritionists Dr. Emily Leeming and Nutritional Psychologist Kimberly Wilson that many individuals are experiencing accelerated brain aging due to a lack of dietary fiber. This deficiency in fiber may be a contributing factor to the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Dementia, a neurodegenerative disease resulting in memory loss, is considered a model of accelerated brain aging, according to Wilson. This emphasizes the importance of dietary fiber for maintaining brain health and activity.

Leeming and Wilson point out that most adults in the UK do not consume an adequate amount of fiber, with the recommended daily intake being at least 30g. However, data shows that British adults only consume around 19g per day, while U.S. adults consume even less at 15g per day. The high cost of fiber-rich foods compared to less healthy options is one reason why individuals may not be meeting their fiber requirements.

Why is Fiber Important for Brain Health?

Wilson describes fiber as an underappreciated protector of the brain. When gut bacteria metabolize fiber, they produce short-chain fatty acids which play a crucial role in protecting the brain. These fatty acids can cross the blood-brain barrier and prevent toxic substances from passing through, highlighting the importance of fiber in maintaining brain health.

Tips for Increasing Fiber Intake

Leeming emphasizes the importance of including fiber-rich foods in the diet to improve gut health and overall well-being. Some tips for increasing fiber intake include focusing on fiber-rich foods like rye bread and beans, snacking on nuts, adding vegetables to meals, and consuming dark chocolate and root vegetables with the skin on.

Increasing fiber intake can also lower the risk of various health conditions, including colon cancer, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. It can also support a healthy gut microbiome, which is essential for overall health.

Learn More About Our Experts

Kimberly Wilson is a licensed psychologist with a Masters in Nutrition and is a published author of books on healthy brain development and the impact of food on mental health.

Dr. Emily Leeming is a Registered Dietitian and Research Fellow with expertise in the impact of diet on the gut microbiome. She has published a book on the science of diet for gut health.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Is an aging NASA probe redefining the limits of our solar system?

Posted on June 19, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

NASA’s New Horizons spacecraft is hurtling out of our solar system at incredible speed. It’s currently about 8 billion kilometers from the Sun, and by the time you finish reading this article, it will be thousands of kilometers further into the frigid darkness. Space is lonely; even the giant planet Jupiter is just a tiny speck.

New Horizons is best known for getting the first proper glimpses of the dwarf planet Pluto in 2015, which it had previously only seen as a faint smudge. It also taught us a lot about the outer solar system and the tiny frozen worlds that float there. “It’s really been an Alice in Wonderland kind of story,” says Alan Stern, the mission’s principal investigator. “It’s been a magical experience, and we’ve made some amazing discoveries.”

But the dream isn’t over yet, because New Horizons may make a surprise final move. In early 2024, one of New Horizons’ detectors recorded an unexpected increase in the amount of dust it encountered. That material could have been created by collisions between rocky fragments, and astronomers now suspect that there may be many objects beyond the rubble-strewn Kuiper Belt, often considered the edge of the solar system. If so, the boundaries of the solar system would need to be redrawn, calling into question models of the formation of the solar system.

Stern and his colleagues are clearly hoping to take advantage of the rover’s unique location to learn more about this unexplored wilderness while they still can. “This is…

Source: www.newscientist.com

You may be lacking in fiber intake, which could accelerate aging

Posted on June 15, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Research indicates that a lack of dietary fiber may result in accelerated brain aging, potentially contributing to the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Expert nutritionists, such as Dr. Emily Leeming and Nutritional Psychologist Kimberly Wilson, presented this theory at the Cheltenham Science Festival.

In fact, dementia, a condition characterized by memory loss, is described as a model of accelerated brain aging by Wilson. This highlights the importance of dietary fiber for brain health and overall well-being.

Most adults in the UK are not consuming enough fiber, falling short of the recommended intake of 30g per day for optimal health. This deficiency poses a risk factor for various health conditions, including cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases.

According to Leeming and Wilson, consuming fiber-rich foods is essential for brain protection. Fiber is metabolized by gut bacteria, producing short-chain fatty acids that play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the blood-brain barrier. These fatty acids help prevent the passage of harmful substances into the brain.

If you are not getting enough fiber in your diet, Leeming suggests incorporating fiber-rich foods like rye bread, beans, nuts, and vegetables. Additionally, consuming dark chocolate and root vegetables with the skin on can help boost your fiber intake.

By increasing fiber consumption, individuals can support their gut health, manage blood sugar levels, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Leeming and Wilson emphasize the importance of fiber for overall health and well-being.

Our experts, Kimberly Wilson and Dr. Emily Leeming, have extensive experience in nutrition and psychology, respectively. Wilson is a licensed psychologist and author, while Leeming is a Registered Dietitian and Research Fellow with a focus on the gut microbiome.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

A unique mutation linked to short stature may hold clues to understanding the aging process

Posted on April 26, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Two of the researchers and several study participants with Laron syndrome

Jaime Guevara-Aguirre and Bartel Longo

People with rare genetic mutations that cause short stature and may even live longer are helping to understand the causes of aging.

People with unusual genetic mutations have some characteristics that protect them from heart disease, one of the most common causes of death, and this explains why their life expectancy exceeds that of the general population. You may have.

A signaling molecule called insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) has long been suspected to be involved in longevity. Several animals, including worms and mice, have been shown to live longer when their levels of this compound are artificially lowered, such as through genetic modification. Centenarians also have slightly lower IGF-1 levels,on average.

In most species, IGF-1 promotes growth when the animal is young and influences how cells use energy later in life. One idea is that there is a trade-off between animals investing energy in further growth and maintaining health.

“As you get older and your body starts to break down, you want to spend your energy on preventing your body from breaking down instead of spending it on growth,” he says. Nir Barzilai from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York was not involved in the new study.

The question of whether this trade-off also occurs in humans is through a rare genetic disease called Laron syndrome, first identified in a group of Ecuadorians whose ancestors left Spain during the Inquisition centuries ago. can be researched.

This mutation causes people to have defective growth hormone receptors, leading to short stature. People with Laron syndrome also have low levels of IGF-1 because the release of IGF-1 is usually triggered by growth hormone.

Because so few people carry the mutation, it is unclear whether it truly extends lifespan. Suggestive evidence comes from a 2011 study of 90 Ecuadorians with Lalon syndromean estimated 400 to 500 people are affected worldwide.

The researchers found that more people with the disease were surviving longer than expected compared to the general Ecuadorian population. 'We know they are more common in older people' walter longo at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles.

In the latest study, Longo and his colleagues compared 24 people with Laron syndrome from Ecuador or the United States to 27 relatives who did not have the mutation. People with Laron syndrome appeared to be healthier on several heart-related measures, including blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and sensitivity to insulin, a hormone involved in controlling blood sugar levels.

People with this mutation also had higher levels of a compound called low-density lipoprotein. Low-density lipoproteins are also known as “bad cholesterol” because they are thought to make arteries more susceptible to plaque, which can lead to heart attacks. However, only 7 percent of Laron syndrome patients had such plaques, compared with 36 percent of their relatives.

The small number of people in the study means this difference may have arisen by chance, but it does suggest that their arteries appear less unhealthy than those of people without the mutation. suggests, Longo said.

It has also previously been shown that people with Laron syndrome are less likely to develop cancer and may have a lower incidence of cancer. Decline in cognitive function that usually occurs with older age.

This new finding supports the idea that somehow weakening the IGF-1 signaling pathway in later life can slow the aging process. Alexey Maklakov at the University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK. “It's a matter of timing,” he says. “At critical stages of growth and development, you definitely don't want to do that. But later in life, it can interfere with the function of these pathways.”

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

The “Aging Atlas”: A Tool to Help Maintain Youthful Muscles

Posted on April 15, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Do you notice your muscles becoming more rigid and harder to manage as you age? A new ‘Atlas of Aging’ has been developed to explain why this happens and to provide potential treatments to prevent it. Additionally, it may lead to legal action.

Focusing on the effects of natural aging, this atlas delves into the intricate changes that occur in muscle tissue at the cellular and molecular levels as we grow older. It also highlights how our muscles actively combat the aging process, potentially aiding in the development of new treatments to enhance the aging body.

As we age, our muscles can weaken, making everyday activities like standing and walking more challenging. However, the underlying causes of this decline are not fully understood. Frailty can lead to an increased risk of falls, reduced mobility, and loss of independence.

Lead author, Dr. Sarah Teichman from the Wellcome Sanger Institute, states that these insights into healthy skeletal muscle aging are empowering researchers worldwide to explore various strategies to combat inflammation, promote muscle regeneration, maintain neural connections, and more.

Longevity expert Andrew Steele emphasizes the importance of understanding the cellular changes that contribute to the loss of physical strength as we age. He underscores the potential of this research to develop therapeutic interventions that support healthier aging in future generations.

The creation of the atlas of aging muscle involved utilizing advanced imaging and single-cell sequencing techniques to analyze skeletal muscle samples from 17 adult donors aged between 20 and 75. The findings shed light on gene activity related to protein production and revealed how muscle fibers age at different rates.

Age-related loss of primary fast-twitch muscle fibers is mitigated by the body’s ability to enhance the properties of remaining fibers and rebuild connections between weakened nerves and aging muscles. This understanding can potentially inform strategies to maintain strength and independence as we grow older.

To learn more about the experts involved in this research, Dr. Andrew Steele, a scientist, author, and presenter, has authored “Ageless: The new science of growing older without getting older.” Combining his background in physics with biology, Steele’s work focuses on deciphering human DNA at the Francis Crick Institute in London.

Read more:

What happens to my body as I get older?
9 simple science-backed changes to reverse your biological age
Groundbreaking discovery of anti-aging cells could help people stay young for longer

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Slowing Aging and Preventing Dementia Through Restoration of Brain Mitochondria

Posted on January 22, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Protein plaques in the brain may be caused by mitochondrial dysfunction

Sebastian Kauritzky/Alamy

If you own a car, you’ve probably noticed that your engine becomes less efficient over time. The farther you drive, the more fuel it takes to cover the same distance. Eventually, you’ll end up with so little power that you need a physical push to climb a gentle hill.

It is now becoming clear that much the same holds true for the human brain. Microscopic structures called mitochondria, found in all brain cells, are literally the engines of our thoughts and emotions. As we age, we find it increasingly difficult to generate enough energy to power mental activity. Worse, just like an old car leaves behind a cloud of smoke, the power source of our cells begins to produce unnecessary waste products that slowly pollute our brains. This means that mitochondrial dysfunction may underlie some of the most serious brain diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and motor neuron disease.

According to this “grand unified theory” of neurodegeneration, recharging neurons through restoration of their power plants can prolong healthy brain function. This idea has already inspired some exciting new treatments for age-related brain diseases, with multiple drug candidates under investigation. Some researchers are exploring the possibility of transplanting healthy mitochondria into damaged, aging brains to reactivate them. “If you keep replacing the parts in your car, it can last forever,” he says. claudio soto, a neurologist at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. “So what happens if we try to run this…

Source: www.newscientist.com

Decoding the key to aging well with medaka fish

Posted on December 25, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

A study of killifish by the Max Planck Institute revealed that older fish enter a state of starvation due to changes in their adipose tissue. Activating a specific subunit of AMP kinase restores health and longevity in humans, suggesting a new way to promote healthier aging in humans.

Genetic switch rescues aging fish from starvation trap.

Fasting interventions that alternate between fasting and refeeding are generally thought to improve health. However, these interventions do not work well in older animals.

The question is, why?

By studying short-lived killifish, researchers at the Max Planck Institute for the Biology of Aging in Cologne found that older fish deviate from the fasting and refeeding cycles of their youth, and even when they consume food, they permanently It was shown that the body enters a state of fasting. However, the benefits of post-fasting refeeding in old medaka fish can be restored by genetically activating specific subunits of AMP kinase, an important sensor of cellular energy.

These mutant fish experience improved health and longevity and require both fasting and refeeding to provide health benefits, which have been shown to act through AMP kinase. I am.

Medaka ages rapidly. The bright colors of their youth fade in just a few months.Credit: K. Link / Max Planck Institute for the Biology of Aging

It has already been shown in many model organisms that reducing food intake through calorie restriction or periods of fasting has positive effects on health. However, it is difficult for humans to reduce the amount they eat throughout their lifetime. To find the optimal timing for fasting, researchers introduced fasting interventions at different ages, but found that these interventions in older adults did not provide the same benefits as in younger animals.

A research team in Cologne, Germany, now investigated the effects of age-related fasting on medaka fish. Medaka is a rapidly aging fish that grows from young to old in just a few months. The researchers either starved young and old fish for several days or fed them twice a day. They found that the visceral adipose (adipose) tissue of older fish became less responsive to feeding. “Adipose tissue is known to respond most strongly to changes in food intake and plays an important role in metabolism, which is why we looked at it more closely,” said lead author of the study. explains Roberto Ripa.

It is important to alternate between fasting and meals

The researchers found that, unable to respond to the feeding phase, the adipose tissue of old fish enters a permanent state of starvation, where energy metabolism ceases, protein production decreases, and tissue does not renew. “We thought that older fish would be unable to switch to fasting after feeding. Surprisingly, the opposite was true, and older fish would be unable to switch to fasting after feeding. , they were in a state of permanent starvation,” said study leader Adam Antebi, director of the Max Planck Institute for the Biology of Aging.

Permanently fasted adipose tissue

When the researchers looked more closely at how the fat tissue of old fish differs from that of young fish, they discovered a specific protein called AMP kinase. This kinase is a cellular energy sensor and is composed of various subunits, among which the activity of the γ1 subunit decreases with age. When scientists genetically engineered this subunit to increase its activity, the starvation-like state was overcome, and the old fish became healthier and lived longer.

human aging

Interestingly, an association was also found between the γ1 subunit and human aging. Significantly lower levels of certain subunits were measured in samples from older patients. Additionally, in human samples, we were able to show that people who are less frail at older ages have higher levels of the γ1 subunit.

“Of course, we still don’t know whether the human γ1 subunit is actually involved in healthy aging. The next step is to find a molecule that precisely activates this subunit and use it to “We investigate whether this can have a positive impact on aging,” explains Adam Antebi.

Reference: “Refeeding related AMPK”_γ1 Complex activity is a hallmark of health and longevity.” Roberto Ripa, Eugen Barrissa, Joachim D. Steiner, Raymond Lavoie, Andrea Annibal, Nadine Hocher, Christian Razza, Luca Dolfi, Chiara Calabrese, By Anna M. Meyer, Maria Cristina Polidori, and Roman – Ulrich Müller and Adam Antebi, November 13, 2023, natural aging.
DOI: 10.1038/s43587-023-00521-y

Source: scitechdaily.com

The surprising evolutionary advantage of aging: Why do we age?

Posted on December 17, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

Researchers used computer models to investigate the evolutionary role of aging. They challenge the notion that aging has no positive effects and suggest that aging may promote evolution in a changing environment, thereby benefiting subsequent generations. I am. Their findings indicate that aging may be an advantageous trait selected by natural evolution. Credit: SciTechDaily.com

The mysteries of aging have fascinated people for thousands of years. Because aging is usually associated with a gradual decline in most bodily functions, many people are willing to do anything to stop or reverse this process. Aging is a natural part of life, but biologists understand surprisingly little about the evolutionary emergence of this process. It’s not clear whether aging is inevitable. That’s because there are some organisms that never seem to age at all, and there is also a phenomenon known as negative aging or rejuvenation. In some turtles, vital functions improve with age.

Studying the evolutionary role of aging

Researchers at the Institute for Evolution, led by scholar Airs Zatmary, have sought to debunk previously proposed but unproven theories of aging. This theory suggests that, under the right circumstances, evolution can encourage the proliferation of genes that control aging.

To test their hypothesis, the researchers used a computer model they developed. This model is an algorithm that allows scientists to simulate long-term processes in populations of organisms and genes in a controlled environment. Essentially, such models allow you to run evolutionary scenarios and get results in hours instead of millions of years. Modern evolutionary research is unthinkable without computer modeling.

Exploring the purpose of aging

The basic research question was simple. The question was, “Is there any meaning to aging?” Does it serve some evolutionary function or is it truly a bitter and deadly byproduct of life? “If there is selection for aging, then aging may have an evolutionary function. Our study aimed to reveal this selection,” he says Eörs Szathmáry. “According to the classical explanation, aging occurs in a population even without selection. It is because individuals die sooner or later without aging (as a result of disease or accidents), This creates an opportunity for genes to accumulate that have a negative effect on older individuals (thus causing aging), meaning that aging is only a side effect of evolution. It means that there is no adaptive function.”

Challenging common sense

During the last century, several evolutionary theories have been formulated to explain inevitable aging without active functions using different biological mechanisms. Although some scientists accepted this assumption as fact, the discovery of organisms that do not age led more and more researchers to question the inevitability of aging and to suggest that perhaps aging has benefits as well. I suggested that it might be.

“The evolutionary biology community has accepted that classical non-adaptive theories of aging cannot explain all aging patterns in nature, meaning that the explanation of aging has once again become an open question. “I mean,” Zatomary said. “Alternative adaptation theories provide a solution to this problem by suggesting positive effects of aging. For example, aging and death may be more advantageous for individuals in a changing environment. This is because doing so reduces competition that prevents the survival and reproduction of more fit offspring with a better genetic makeup.

However, this scenario is only true if the individual is surrounded primarily by relatives. Otherwise, during sexual reproduction, non-senescent individuals would “steal” better (better adapted to environmental changes) genes from aging population members, thus erasing significant senescence.

Aging as a catalyst for evolution

Hungarian biologists ran a model and found that aging can actually accelerate evolution. This is an advantage in a changing world. Faster adaptation allows us to find suitable traits faster, which supports the survival and spread of offspring genes. This means that aging can become a highly advantageous trait and be favored by natural selection.

Reference: András Siraj, Tamash Charan, Mauro Santos, Airs Zatmary, “Directional selection combined with kin selection favors the establishment of senescence”, October 23, 2023. BMC biology.
DOI: 10.1186/s12915-023-01716-w

Funding: National Agency for Research, Development and Innovation (Hungary), Bolyai János Research Fellowship of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, New National Excellence Program of the Ministry of Culture and Innovation, Ministry of Science and Innovation, Autonomous Region of Catalonia 2021 Special Guest Scientist Volkswagen Foundation, Hungary Fellowship Program of the Academy of Sciences (Initiative “Leben?

Source: scitechdaily.com