The number of studies focusing on bioenergetics as a reliable method for delaying (or even reversing) aging continues to rapidly grow. A few years ago, an in-vivo study with humans demonstrated that human immune system aging can be reversed by a combination of DHEA and a few other, less -than-desirable ingredients with the purpose of the latter likely being to simply conceal the fact that DHEA was the main “active ingredient” in that combo treatment. Even before that study came out, in-vitro studies with humans cells demonstrated that glycine, methylene blue, progesterone, vitamin K, T3, etc can all reverse the aging phenotype. The one thing that unites all of these substances is that they are all pro-metabolic and improve mitochondrial function (OXPHOS). So, bioenergetic modulation seems to be a viable pathway through which we can tackle not only aging but all of its symptoms commonly known as “chronic diseases”. Case in point – the study below demonstrated reversal of aging in-vivo in a mouse model, were the administration of the naturally occurring metabolic/mitochondrial enhancer urolithin A reversed the signs of aging in the animals’ hematopoietic and immune systems. While urolithins seem to have somehow become very popular in scientific research, and especially for anti-aging purposes, they are expensive to produce/acquire and have not been studied enough for safety. Since the proposed mechanism of action of urolithin A in this study is enhanced mitophagy and increased mitochondrial function, other chemicals with the same effects should also be able to achieve the same results. All of the substances mentioned earlier in the post are known to also have such effects on mitochondria, so I don’t see a reason to try one or more of them for anti-aging purposes.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s43587-023-00473-3
https://www.miragenews.com/nature-aging-study-age-reversal-in-blood-stem-1078927/
“…However, the researchers discovered a remarkable solution. By introducing a naturel compound called Urolithin A, which targets mitochondria – the energy powerhouses of cells – they were able to reverse the decline in HSC function. Mitochondria abnormalities were identified as a contributing factor to the aging of HSCs. Urolithin A acted as a mitochondrial modulator, effectively restoring the mitochondrial function within HSCs. Urolithins are not found in food; however, their precursors are. Urolithin A is the result of transformation of ellagic acids and ellagitannins by the gut microflora in humans. Ellagitannins are found in pomegranates, nuts, some berries. The most interesting finding of this preclinical study was that this intervention not only rejuvenated the blood reconstitution capability of older HSCs but also improved immune system function in aged mice. When Urolithin A was incorporated as a dietary supplement, it not only revitalized the immune system’s lymphoid compartments but also enhanced overall HSC performance. This translated to an improved immune response against viral infections, showcasing the potential of Urolithin A to combat age-related immune system decline. In essence, this groundbreaking research indicates that by encouraging the recycling of mitochondria using Urolithin A, it is possible to reverse the aging process within the hematopoietic and immune systems. These findings hold immense promise for the development of interventions targeted at addressing age-related health conditions in older individuals and pave the way for envisioning clinical trials.”
