Evidence Shows Eating Less Significantly Extends Lifespan and Slows Brain Aging

 

Scientists at the Buck Institute have achieved a groundbreaking discovery in the realm of cognitive health, brain aging, and longevity. Their study, focusing on the impact of dietary restriction on cognitive decline and human lifespan extension, has revealed a neuron-specific response mediated by the OXR1 gene. This gene's activity is heightened by strategies such as intermittent fasting and low-calorie diets.

Dr. Kenneth Wilson, the first author of the study, emphasizes that when people limit their food intake, they might not only affect their digestive tract but also impact the brain. The research, conducted using fruit flies and human cells, sheds light on how dietary restriction can delay aging and slow the progression of neurodegenerative brain diseases.

Professor Pankaj Kapahi explains that a neuron-specific response has been identified, mediating the neuroprotection of dietary restriction. Strategies like intermittent fasting or caloric restriction may enhance the levels of the OXR1 gene to bring about protective effects.

The study delves into the reasons for variability in responses to reduced calories across individuals and tissues. Approximately 200 strains of flies with varying genetic backgrounds and diets were analyzed, identifying five genes, including the human counterpart of OXR1, significantly influencing longevity under dietary restriction.

The research focused on the "mustard" (mtd) gene in fruit flies and its human equivalent, OXR1, exploring its role in protecting cells from oxidative damage. The loss of OXR1 in humans results in severe neurological defects and early death, while its excess in mice enhances survival in ALS models.

The connection between brain aging, neurodegeneration, and lifespan was further explored through in-depth tests, revealing OXR1's impact on the retromer complex, crucial for recycling cellular proteins and lipids. This pathway is vital in protecting neurons under nutrient limitations.

The research underscores the pivotal role of dietary habits in brain health and longevity. The mtd/OXR1 gene plays a crucial role in maintaining the retromer, a cellular pathway involved in recycling proteins. By understanding this mechanism, researchers hope to identify specific compounds that increase OXR1 levels during aging to delay brain aging.

Increasing mtd levels in flies led to an extended lifespan, suggesting that increased expression of OXR1 in humans might have similar life-extending benefits. The study emphasizes the profound impact of dietary choices on cellular health, brain functionality, and overall longevity.

In concluding remarks, Dr. Kenneth Wilson highlights the overarching impact of diet on the body's processes, supporting efforts to follow a healthy diet for overall well-being. The study's findings open the door to potential therapeutic developments and a deeper understanding of brain aging processes.

The research is published in the journal Nature Communications. Stay tuned for more updates on this fascinating exploration of the link between diet, genes, and longevity.

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