Gob hanging open...
Researchers were able to turn back the molecular clock by
infusing the blood stem cells of old mice with a longevity gene and
rejuvenating the aged stem cells' regenerative potential. The findings will be
published online Thursday, Jan. 31, in the journal Cell Reports.
The biologists found that SIRT3, one among a class of
proteins known as sirtuins, plays an important role in helping aged blood stem
cells cope with stress. When they infused the blood stem cells of old mice with
SIRT3, the treatment boosted the formation of new blood cells, evidence of a
reversal in the age-related decline in the old stem cells' function.
"We already know
that sirtuins regulate aging, but our study is really the first one
demonstrating that sirtuins can reverse aging-associated degeneration, and I
think that's very exciting," said study principal investigator Danica
Chen, UC Berkeley assistant professor of nutritional science and toxicology.
"This opens the door to potential treatments for age-related degenerative diseases."
2 comments:
I've always thought that the first immortal would be born within my lifetime. Unfortunately, at 62, it won't be me - but maybe my grandchildren will benefit.
John, I keep saying, 'Bugger, I was born 50 years too early'. I'm guessing that everyone over the age of maybe 20 has missed that boat.
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