Telomere length, a marker of cellular aging, decreases with age and has been associated with age-related diseases. Environmental factors, including diet and lifestyle, affect the rate of telomere shortening, which can be reversed by increasing telomerase.
Increasing Telomerase Naturally
Telomere shortening can be reversed by the enzyme telomerase. This enzyme is active in highly proliferative cells, such as male germ cells, activated lymphocytes, stem cells, and cancer cells.
In studies, Centella asiatica extract was able to trigger an almost 9-fold increase in telomerase activity. This suggests that it could be a powerful new natural telomerase activator with significant anti-aging effects.
Natural molecules with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties are increasingly recognized as agents that can restore telomere shortening. This could improve age-related diseases.
The effects of natural compounds on telomerase regulation have been attributed to the central role of oxidative stress and inflammation in telomere shortening and telomerase activity. This suggests that nutrients with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can reduce cellular sensitivity to telomere loss.
Astragalus, a plant used in traditional Chinese medicine, is one of the most potent products in this pharmaceutical class. Astragalus and one of its derivatives (astragalosides) appear to be metabolized to cycloastragenol (CA), a telomerase activator. Some astragalus products have shown benefits.
Another example of a telomerase modulator is genistein, found in soybeans and soy-enriched products. It is capable of inducing telomerase expression and activity.
Antioxidant Vitamins
Vitamin E has a wide range of beneficial activities, including antioxidant, antitumor, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective properties. It has been reported to suppress telomerase activity in human colorectal adenocarcinoma cells.
Vitamin A (retinol) and retinoic acid (a metabolite of vitamin A) decreased telomerase activity in cancer cells. Adding this vitamin to foods or skin care preparations may positively affect skin condition.
Vitamin D negatively regulates telomerase transcription modulation and also reduces telomerase activity. Therefore, it is postulated that its anti-aging effect is due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These could be associated with telomere stabilization.
VITAMINA D MultiMoist CLR™
Aging and Senescence
A deep understanding of the mechanisms of aging and senescence is a key element of cell biology research. Knowing how the aging process begins, its stages, and its consequences will allow us to design strategies that can slow these processes.
Modifying these factors with naturally occurring compounds is an attractive alternative to synthetic chemicals, which are still widely used.
This could form the basis of a very interesting approach in regenerative and cosmetic medicine. This data can also contribute to the development of more effective anti-aging strategies.
It is also important for the prevention of age-related diseases that are closely linked to cellular aging.
The option of using telomerase modulators offers a comprehensive perspective in the context of improving the quality and length of human life.
