Spread of aging akin to an infectious disease, linked to newly-found protein

In a groundbreaking discovery, researchers from Korea University College of Medicine have shed new light on the process of aging. Their study reveals that a protein known as HMGB1 plays a significant role in cellular aging, potentially accelerating the aging process.

HMGB1, often referred to as "aging's dirty little secret," acts as an "aging messenger" that carries signals from cell to cell. In a low-oxygen cellular environment, HMGB1 transforms otherwise healthy cells into aged and dysfunctional ones, causing aging to spread like a virus from cell to cell.

This discovery is particularly important because HMGB1's activation of the JAK/STAT and NF-κB pathways, known for promoting inflammation, is a key factor in the aging process. By understanding this mechanism, researchers hope to develop JAK2 inhibitors, a class of medications, to prevent HMGB1 from activating aging pathways.

JAK2 inhibitors, whether natural or synthetic, are gaining attention for their potential in delaying or reducing the effects of aging. Fruits and vegetables are rich sources of these inhibitors. For instance, Quercetin, a flavonoid found in fruits and vegetables, and Curcumin, the active component of turmeric, are known JAK2 inhibitors due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Similarly, Bergamottin, a natural antioxidant found in the peel of bergamot orange, grapefruit, and lemon, and Garcinol, extracted from Garcinia indica fruit, also inhibit JAK2. Resveratrol, a potent antioxidant found in the skin of red grapes, is another example of a JAK2 inhibitor.

The implications of this research extend beyond the lab. Usually after the age of 40, symptoms of aging can start appearing in different parts of the body, such as arthritis-like issues in the knee, followed by back, neck, and other areas. However, science suggests that this decline is not a natural one. Advanced genetic sequencing science is revealing potential treatments that target the protein behind senescence (the process of deterioration) to stop aging's spread.

At middle age, energy levels, weight, muscle strength, skin condition, and desire may decline. But with a better understanding of the mechanisms behind aging, it may be possible to develop effective strategies to counteract these changes and maintain a youthful vigour.