Researchers discover enzyme that slows aging, boosts health

Researchers may have discovered an enzyme that could potentially slow down the aging process. Their study indicates that byproducts of fats, such as fatty acids and glycerol, are linked to shorter lifespans and an increase in chronic diseases. Laboratory tests on animals led scientists to conclude that the enzyme ADH-1 could help reduce these harmful byproducts, resulting in lower glycerol levels and potentially longer lifespans.

Understanding Fatty Acids
Fatty acids are essential for many body functions, acting as the building blocks of body fat. However, when present in excess, they can interfere with metabolic processes and cause inflammation, contributing to a shorter lifespan and an increased risk of chronic diseases.

Research Insights
Eyleen Jorgelina O’Rourke, Associate Professor of Biology and Cell Biology at the University of Virginia, and her research team explored the possibility that reducing harmful fat byproducts could slow aging and delay common diseases. Their studies on laboratory animals consistently showed that all anti-aging interventions resulted in lower glycerol levels.

O’Rourke explained, “When placed on a calorie-restricted diet, the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans lives about 40% longer. We found that the glycerol levels in the body of these long-lived worms were lower than in shorter-lived worms that were not food restricted.”

The research concluded that increased activity of the enzyme ADH-1 leads to reduced glycerol levels. Worms fed a diet with added glycerol showed a 30% decrease in lifespan. Conversely, animals genetically engineered to produce more ADH-1 had lower glycerol levels, remained healthier, lived longer, and did not gain extra weight even when given unlimited food.

O’Rourke highlighted the potential for future drug development, stating, “The simple molecular structure and wealth of research on ADH-1 make it an attractive target for developing drugs that boost its activity. My lab’s long-term goal is to explore how compounds that activate ADH-1 affect the health and longevity of both mice and people.”