Effects of d-galactose-induced ageing on the heart and its potential interventions

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Gerontology
• Biomedical Science

Background:

• Aging is a primary risk factor for disability, morbidity, and mortality, particularly affecting post-mitotic cells like those in the heart.
• The global aging population is experiencing a rapid increase in heart disease, necessitating a deeper understanding of age-related cardiac dysfunction.
• Current research utilizes aged animal models and mimetic aging models, such as d-galactose administration, to investigate the mechanisms of cardiac aging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review in vitro and in vivo studies on d-galactose-induced cardiac aging.
• To summarize the effects of d-galactose on the aging heart.
• To identify potential therapeutic interventions for age-related heart disease.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of existing literature on d-galactose-induced aging models.
• Analysis of in vitro and in vivo experimental findings.
• Exploration of therapeutic strategies investigated in animal models.

Main Results:

• D-galactose is widely used since 1991 to induce aging phenotypes in various models, including the heart.
• The precise mechanisms by which d-galactose accelerates cardiac aging remain incompletely understood.
• Evidence from animal studies suggests potential therapeutic avenues for mitigating age-related cardiac decline.

Conclusions:

• Understanding d-galactose-induced cardiac aging is crucial for developing strategies against age-related heart disease.
• This review consolidates current knowledge, providing a foundation for future research.
• Findings may inform clinical interventions to prevent and treat heart conditions in an aging population.