An international team of biologists discovered a natural compound that slowed aging in healthy mice. A study on this topic was published in the journal Cell Metabolism and is briefly reported by EurekAlert!
In the new work, the scientists managed to use the NMN nucleotide, which is involved in the energy metabolism of the cell, for the synthesis of the coenzyme NAD in the body of animals. It is impossible to administer the latter substance directly to animals.
The NAD compound is involved in the absorption of fats and carbohydrates, but its synthesis slows down with age due to DNA damage. In particular, the coenzyme inhibits weight gain, loss of insulin sensitivity and decreased physical activity.
“We have demonstrated a way to slow down the physiological decline seen in aging mice,” said study co-author Shin-Ichiro Imai. "This means that old mice achieve about the same level of metabolism and energy as young animals."
Experiments on mice have shown that water-soluble NMN is absorbed into the blood within three minutes. Experts note that ingestion of NMN in young mice has no significant effect.
Scientists believe that since the human body metabolizes in a similar way to mice, the conclusions of the new study are also valid for humans. In Japan, human trials of NMN drugs have already begun. This compound, as noted by scientists, is found in a number of foods, in particular broccoli, cabbage, cucumbers and avocados.
In August, it was reported that doctors from the University of Pennsylvania (USA) for the first time proved the effectiveness of NAD and drugs based on its precursors for the prevention of muscle degradation. These compounds are currently popular among people involved in physical culture and sports.