Aging: mitochondrial damage and aging

In summary, a recent study showed that higher levels of glutathione, a molecule responsible for cleaning up reactive oxygen species in the body, may contribute to longevity in mice and possibly humans. This supplement, glyNAC, was found to significantly increase the lifespan of mice. However, it is unclear if these results can be directly applied to humans and the potential societal implications of significantly extended lifespans are also a topic of discussion.
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jim mcnamara
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Higher Glutathione levels in mice and possibly humans contributes to longevity
A precis of medical research about aging and aging reversal in mice:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/ar...#Understanding-the-importance-of-mitochondria

[Mitochondria background]
Mitochondria are organelles in cells. There is a lot of research support for their appearance in prevuiously "primitive" cells via merger, transforming them into "modern" eucaryotic cells -> animals, plants, us. Eucaryotic cells arose to importance when oxygen levels in the early Earth's atmosphere rose, about 2.2 bya.

Mitochondria have their own DNA in a ring, called a plasmid. They affect inheritance in that they are directly inherited from mom 100% -> offspring. The rest of nuclear DNA in chromosomes comes from dad and mom, 50-50.

Mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell. But. They are messy and the energy process (Kreb's Cycle) leaves behind some nasty molecules called reactive oxygen species (ROS). Hydrogen peroxide is an ROS. One of the main janitorial molecules to clean up these nasties is glutathione.
[/Mitochondria]

The link above discusses how cells age due in part to the decease of glutathione production. Mice and humans are alike in this regard, mice show signs of aging at 65 weeks, humans ~60 years. There is evidence for oxidative stress (ROS damage run amok) in humans with low glutathione levels. Mice ditto.

Since human longevity studies take way too long, they used mice. Mice which had artificially induced higher levels of glutathione lived 24% longer than control populations.

The artficial boost of mouse gluthione came from glyNAC - a food supplement. It is a mixture of
glycine and acetyl cysteine added to mouse chow.

As always you cannot guarantee that mouse results projected to human results will be a match.

[IMO] if humans were to live 24% longer, then a lot of demographics would change and population growth rate ( births - deaths) would change. Maybe some good, maybe some not so good
[IMO]
 
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jim mcnamara said:
Summary:: Higher Glutathione levels in mice and possibly humans contributes to longevity

[IMO] if humans were to live 24% longer, then a lot of demographics would change and population growth rate ( births - deaths) would change. Maybe some good, maybe some not so good
[IMO]
Living longer, healthy, would be a good societal outcome, I would have thought, @jim mcnamara. Less healthcare cost burden and more likelihood of older people contributing to their community / economy.

Living longer, unhealthily, surely that's the dystopian nightmare!
 

FAQ: Aging: mitochondrial damage and aging

What is mitochondrial damage?

Mitochondrial damage refers to any type of harm or dysfunction that occurs within the mitochondria, which are the organelles responsible for producing energy within cells. This damage can lead to a decrease in energy production, as well as an increase in the production of harmful byproducts that can contribute to aging.

How does mitochondrial damage contribute to aging?

As we age, our mitochondria become less efficient and can accumulate damage from various sources, such as oxidative stress and genetic mutations. This can lead to a decrease in energy production and an increase in the production of harmful byproducts, which can contribute to the aging process.

Can mitochondrial damage be prevented?

While some level of mitochondrial damage is inevitable as we age, there are steps we can take to help prevent or reduce the damage. These include maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding exposure to toxins, and consuming a diet rich in antioxidants.

Are there any diseases associated with mitochondrial damage?

Yes, there are several diseases that have been linked to mitochondrial damage, such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and various types of cancer. Mitochondrial dysfunction has also been implicated in the aging process itself.

Is there any research being done to address mitochondrial damage and aging?

Yes, there is ongoing research in this field, with a focus on developing treatments and interventions that can help prevent or reverse mitochondrial damage and slow down the aging process. This includes therapies aimed at improving mitochondrial function and reducing oxidative stress.

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