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Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitors in Aging and Aging-Related Diseases: Clinical Applications and Relevant Mechanisms

Ling Zhong1, Jielin Yang2, Jibran Nehal Syed2

  • 1Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Biotherapy, Laboratory of Diabetes and Metabolism Research, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.

Aging and Disease
|January 3, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors (AGIs) show promise in delaying aging and treating age-related diseases. These antidiabetic drugs modulate key pathways, offering potential healthspan benefits beyond diabetes management.

Area of Science:

  • Gerontology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Aging is a universal process involving cellular decline, increasing susceptibility to diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and cancer.
  • Interventions that delay aging can mitigate these conditions and improve overall health.
  • Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors (AGIs) are established antidiabetic drugs that manage hyperglycemia by inhibiting carbohydrate digestion.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent advancements in using alpha-glucosidase inhibitors (AGIs) for aging and age-related disease prevention and treatment.
  • To explore the mechanisms through which AGIs impact aging processes.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on AGIs and aging.
  • Analysis of AGIs' effects on oxidative stress, gut microbiota, inflammation, and nutrient-sensing pathways.

Main Results:

  • AGIs demonstrate potential in extending lifespan and treating aging-related diseases.
  • Mechanisms include modulation of oxidative stress, gut microbiota, inflammatory responses, and nutrient-sensing pathways.
  • AGIs offer benefits beyond their antidiabetic effects.

Conclusions:

  • Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors represent a promising therapeutic strategy for combating aging and associated diseases.
  • Further research into AGIs' anti-aging properties could lead to novel interventions for promoting healthspan.

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