New research indicates the possibility of slowing down, and perhaps even reversing, the aging process.
The study, published in the journal "Nature", showed that infusion of "exosomal vesicles" (sEVs) from the blood of young mice can rejuvenate the brain, liver, bones, skeletal muscles, pancreas and heart of old mice.
What are sEVs?
sEVs are nanovesicles secreted by cells and contain various substances, such as proteins, nucleic acids and microRNA.
They serve as intercellular messengers, carry information and contribute to the proper functioning of many systems in the body.
Research findings:
- Transfusion of young sEVs into old mice significantly increased their lifespan by 12.4%.
- Treatment with young sEVs improved many physiological functions, including cognitive function, liver health, bone density, muscle health, pancreatic function, and heart function.
- Testosterone levels, sperm count, sperm motility and sperm chromatin integrity increased in male mice treated with young sEVs.
- Fertility of female mice treated with young sEVs improved.
Mechanism of action:
The exact mechanism by which young sEVs cause rejuvenation is still not entirely clear.
However, the researchers believe that sEVs may deliver substances that promote cell regeneration, DNA repair and improved mitochondrial function.
Adult mice treated with young sEVs: summary of additional findings
Improving metabolic health:
- Oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production are higher
- Significant improvement in echocardiogram parameters
- Improvement in bone architecture
- Cortical atrophy decreased after treatment
Decreased signs of aging:
- SA-β-gal levels decreased in different organs
- Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels returned to levels of young mice
- accumulation of excess glycation products is eliminated
References:
https://www.nature.com/articles/s43587-024-00612-4
