Scientists have discovered a way to slow down cell aging: the key may be hidden in ordinary matter in the body

The dream of prolonging youth has received new scientific confirmation. Researchers from Germany's Fritz Lipmann Institute for Aging Research (FLI) told xrust that they have discovered one mechanism of cellular aging that may be reversed. The results of the work show that it is possible to return some of the lost energy to cells without complex genetic engineering — it is enough to restore the level of one important substance.

Why cells age

class=»notranslate»>__GTAG7__ As we age, the body's cells gradually lose their ability to efficiently produce energy. The main role in this process is played by mitochondria — the unique “power plants” of the cell. When their work is disrupted, tissues are less able to recover, and the risk of chronic diseases increases.

Scientists have long tried to understand what exactly triggers this process. New research points to an unexpected culprit: decreased levels of phosphatidylcholine. This is a natural lipid that is part of cell membranes and is present in almost all tissues of the body.

Unexpected result of the experiment

The researchers studied human cells, tissues and laboratory models, comparing young and aging samples. It turned out that with age the amount of phosphatidylcholine decreases, and along with it the functioning of mitochondria deteriorates.

Then scientists tried to restore the level of this substance. The result was unexpected: mitochondria began to work noticeably more efficiently again, and the cells showed signs of a “younger” state. According to the study authors, this suggests that some aging processes may not be irreversible, as previously thought.

The “elixir of youth” is still far away

Despite the loud headlines, experts urge not to draw hasty conclusions. The research does not mean that a way to stop human aging has already been found. So far we are talking about a fundamental discovery that helps to better understand the work of cells.

It will take many more years of research and clinical trials to turn the results into a cure or treatment. Scientists will have to find out whether it is possible to safely influence this mechanism in people and whether this will actually slow down the development of age-related diseases.

Why discovery is important

Aging is considered a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes and many other chronic conditions. If we can maintain normal mitochondrial function, medicine can not only extend life expectancy, but also increase the number of years a person spends without serious illness.

This is why such studies are attracting great attention today. More and more scientific groups around the world view aging not as an inevitable process, but as a biological mechanism that can be influenced in the future.

While scientists continue to test their findings, the discovery has already become another confirmation that the fight against aging is gradually moving from the realm of science fiction to the realm of modern science.

Source: ScienceDaily, Nature Cell Biology .

Xrust Scientists have discovered a way to slow down cell aging: the key may be hidden in ordinary matter in the body