Many processes in our bodies slow down as we age, especially tissue repair. Researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, have found a promising way to revive this crucial repair work.
Their study highlights four transcription factors—proteins that control gene activity—that can make cells behave younger. When they increased one factor in older mice’s liver cells, they observed significant improvements: reduced fat and scarring, enhanced glucose tolerance, and overall healthier organs.
The team didn’t stop there. They experimented with all four factors in lab-grown human fibroblast cells, which support our body’s structure. Again, they saw signs of rejuvenation, like increased cell division and energy.
Biochemist Hao Li notes, “Altering gene expression using the transcription factors we identified made old fibroblasts act younger and improved the health of old mice.”
To find these four key factors, the researchers compared young and old human fibroblast cells to understand how gene expression changes with age. After testing a shortlist of 200 transcription factors, they settled on E2F3, EZH2, STAT3, and ZFX as the most promising.
Interestingly, their findings suggest these proteins might work similarly across different species. This could mean a universal approach to activating youthful states in older cells.
While this research is groundbreaking, it’s still in the early stages. The experiments were brief, and we don’t yet know the long-term effects of such cellular rejuvenation. There are also concerns about potential risks, like the link between excessive EZH2 activity and cancer.
As global life expectancy increases, understanding how to maintain health in older age becomes even more critical. Biochemist Janine Sengstack emphasizes the potential of this research, saying it could lead to new ways to combat aging-related diseases.
This study was published in PNAS, and it sheds light on the future of age-related health challenges. Exploring these transcription factors could pave the way for significant advancements in how we manage aging.
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