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Published on: June 12, 2017
The autophagy enhancer spermidine reverses arterial aging
Thomas J LaRocca1, Rachel A Gioscia-Ryan, Christopher M Hearon
1Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309, USA.
Mechanisms of Ageing and Development
|April 25, 2013
Summary
Spermidine, a nutrient linked to autophagy, reverses arterial aging in mice. This dietary supplement improved blood vessel function and reduced cardiovascular disease risk factors in older subjects.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Aging Research
- Nutraceutical Science
Background:
- Arterial aging, marked by stiffening and endothelial dysfunction, elevates cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk.
- Aging is associated with increased arterial oxidative stress and structural changes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if spermidine supplementation can ameliorate arterial aging.
- To determine if spermidine's vascular benefits are linked to autophagy.
Main Methods:
- Compared arterial stiffness (aortic pulse wave velocity) and endothelial function (endothelium-dependent dilation) in young and old mice.
- Assessed arterial oxidative stress markers (nitrotyrosine, superoxide) and advanced glycation end-products (AGEs).
- Investigated the role of autophagy in mediating spermidine's effects through supplementation and in vitro studies.
Main Results:
- Old mice exhibited significantly increased arterial stiffness and impaired endothelial function compared to young mice.
- Spermidine supplementation normalized arterial stiffness, restored endothelial function, and reduced oxidative stress and AGEs in old mice.
- Spermidine's vascular protective effects were associated with enhanced autophagy and were dependent on it.
Conclusions:
- Spermidine demonstrates potent anti-aging effects on arteries by enhancing autophagy and improving vascular health.
- Spermidine may be a promising nutraceutical for preventing age-related arterial stiffening and cardiovascular disease.
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