The Effects Of Aging And Anti-Aging Dietary Restriction On Brain Glutathione And Thioredoxin Redox Systems
As we age, our brains become more vulnerable to damage from harmful molecules called free radicals, a process known as oxidative stress. Our bodies have natural defense mechanisms, or “redox systems,” to combat this, with a key player being a molecule called glutathione. Glutathione exists in two forms: a protective, active form (GSH) and an oxidized, less active form (GSSG). A healthy brain maintains a good balance, with plenty of the active GSH form.
However, research shows that with aging, the brain’s ability to produce GSH decreases, and more of it gets converted into the less active GSSG form. This shift means our brains are less equipped to neutralize free radicals, leading to increased oxidative damage. This damage is thought to contribute to age-related decline in brain function.
The good news is that studies on anti-aging strategies, specifically dietary restriction (reducing overall calorie intake without causing malnutrition), have shown promising results. Dietary restriction can help reverse or delay these age-related changes in the brain. It boosts the levels of the active GSH and improves the overall balance of these protective molecules in various brain regions. This suggests that by carefully managing our diet, we might be able to enhance our brain’s natural defenses against the effects of aging. Another important defense mechanism, the thioredoxin system, also plays a crucial role in maintaining this delicate balance, working alongside glutathione to keep our brains healthy as we get older.
Source: link to paper