The researchers found that the indole molecule gives mice, worms and fruit flies the healthy traits of younger members, even as they get older.
Forever Young
It was found that indole, a molecule produced by commensal bacteria, prolongs the life of mice, hookworms, and fruit flies. Indole appears to have the ability to prevent the common signs of aging such as weight loss and decreased mobility.
Healthy life is closely related to life expectancy, but it is not the same thing - the former refers to the period before the onset of aging symptoms. This study, carried out at Emory University School of Medicine, aimed to learn more about the effects of age on health.
When the researchers blocked the production of indole molecules, it turned out that the subjects no longer showed anti-aging effects. Indole did not prolong life, but allowed movement and food without signs of old age.
Eternal problem
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Considering the processes taking place in the bodies of animals, at the molecular level, we will be able to better understand the basic processes of life. We know what the effects of aging look like, but understanding how certain molecules can inhibit aging allows us to know what's going on at a deeper level.
People have been looking for ways to reverse aging since the dawn of time, and current technology offers some promising possibilities. Between cryogenic freezing and using artificial intelligence to achieve immortality, there are other possibilities, even if they are financially unattainable for most people.
At the same time, the bacterium appears to be a readily available remedy for reducing the effects of aging. The researchers hope to make enough progress to achieve results for the human body, but note that there is still a long way to cure old age.
Vadim Tarabarko