Anti-Aging Potential Of Caffeoyl-Spermidine Derivatives From Lycium Ruthenicum Murr.: Insights From UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS, Caenorhabditis Elegans, And Mechanistic Studies
Scientists are constantly searching for natural compounds that could help us live longer and healthier lives. A recent study explored the potential of compounds found in Lycium ruthenicum Murr., a plant known for its beneficial properties. Researchers focused on specific molecules called caffeoyl-spermidine derivatives. Using a tiny worm called Caenorhabditis elegans, a common model in aging research due to its short lifespan and genetic similarities to humans, the study found that these plant-derived compounds significantly extended the worms’ lifespan. The compounds achieved this by tackling several key aspects of aging. They helped reduce the accumulation of “age pigment” (lipofuscin), which is cellular waste that builds up over time. They also acted as powerful antioxidants, scavenging harmful molecules called reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can damage cells and contribute to aging. Furthermore, these derivatives boosted the activity of the worms’ natural antioxidant enzymes, enhancing their internal defense systems. The research also delved into the underlying mechanisms, revealing that these compounds influence a fundamental biological pathway known as the insulin/IGF-1 signaling (IIS) pathway, which plays a crucial role in regulating lifespan across many species. This suggests that these natural compounds could offer a promising avenue for developing new strategies to promote healthy aging.
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