Study: “Targeting senescence induced by age or chemotherapy with a polyphenol-rich natural extract improves longevity and healthspan in mice”
Publisher: Nature
Published date: July 2024
PubMed link to study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38951692/
A recent study has shown that a natural extract from Salvia haenkei, known as Haenkenium improves longevity by extending lifespan and improving healthspan in mice by targeting cellular senescence. This research suggests that Haenkenium could potentially mitigate age-related diseases and improve overall health in aging populations by reducing inflammation and tissue degeneration.
Feel welcome to share your own thoughts on this research in the comment section below as well. I will be happy to discuss and learn more about how you see its potential in this field.
Understanding Cellular Senescence
As we age, our cells undergo a process called senescence. Cellular senescence refers to the process where cells lose their ability to divide and grow. While this can prevent the spread of damaged cells, the accumulation of senescent cells over time contributes to inflammation and tissue deterioration, accelerating the aging process and the onset of age-related diseases.
The Role of Haenkenium
Researchers have identified a natural extract from the Bolivian prawn sage (Salvia haenkei), known as Haenkenium, that shows promise in combating cellular senescence. This study demonstrated that Haenkenium improves longevity as it could extend both the lifespan and healthspan of mice.
Key Findings
The following are the most significant highlights from this research.
Extended Lifespan
Mice treated with Haenkenium lived significantly longer, with their median lifespan increasing from 28 months to 32.25 months. This effect was observed in both male and female mice.
Enhanced Healthspan
Haenkenium-treated mice not only lived longer but also maintained better health. They exhibited stronger muscles, thicker fur, and fewer age-related physical changes. These improvements were quantified using a Physical Appearance Score, which noted reductions in spinal curvature, improved fur condition, and fewer tumors.
Reduced Senescence Markers
Treatment with Haenkenium decreased markers of cellular senescence and reduced inflammation and fibrosis in various tissues. This indicates that Haenkenium helps mitigate the adverse effects of aging at the cellular level.
Improved Tissue Health
Haenkenium-treated mice showed healthier bones, kidneys, and other organs. For instance, kidney health was notably better, with reduced fibrosis and lower expression of fibrotic markers such as collagen and fibronectin.
Mechanism of Action
The study identified luteolin, a flavonoid found in high concentrations in Haenkenium, as a key active compound. Luteolin disrupts the interaction between two proteins, p16 and CDK6, which are crucial in the regulation of the cell cycle and senescence. By interfering with this interaction, luteolin helps prevent cells from becoming senescent.
Implications for Human Health
While these findings are based on studies in mice, they suggest that Haenkenium could potentially benefit human health. The results indicate that Haenkenium might be developed into a supplement to promote healthy aging by reducing cellular senescence and its associated negative effects.
Although, further research will be needed to assess this possibility, and in particular research in humans to understand if Haenkenium has a similar effect on humans. The authors emphasize that the dosage of Haenkenium used in the study was relatively low, making it feasible for future development as a supplement or therapeutic for human use. This low dosage, combined with the observed safety profile, indicates a potential for practical application in human aging
Future Research Directions
The most interesting next steps from here would involve conducting clinical trials to test the safety and effectiveness of Haenkenium in humans. Additionally, researchers are exploring other potential applications, such as reducing chemotherapy-induced senescence, which could improve the quality of life for cancer patients.
The authors note that while the study identified promising effects of Haenkenium on aging, there are limitations, such as the use of a single inbred mouse strain and the need for further research to explore the full range of Haenkenium’s mechanisms and its effects in genetically diverse populations.
In Summary
This research demonstrates that Haenkenium improves longevity in mice by extending lifespan and improving healthspan by targeting cellular senescence. As research progresses, Haenkenium has potential to become an important tool in promoting healthier aging and mitigating age-related diseases.
