In this article, our seventh in a series of mini articles on aging pathways, we offer a brief overview of epigenetic marks, which are crucial in regulating gene expression. Acting as “modifications” attached to DNA, they include histone modifications and DNA methylation.
This article is part seven of a ten-part series on reproductive aging.
- How Do Growth Pathways & Nutrient Sensing Impact Our Aging?
- Nurturing Resilience Against Molecular Damage
- Harnessing Hormesis and Mitohormesis for Longevity
- The Nrf2 Pathway and Iron’s Impact on Aging and Cancer
- The Role of Repair and Recycling in Longevity
- Enhancing Longevity Through TFEB Activation and Nutrient Sensing
- Epigenetic Reprogramming: A Gateway to Youth
- The Importance of Telomerase: Extending Chromosomal Integrity
- The Impact of LDL Cholesterol and ApoE on Longevity
- Lifestyle Factors and Their Role in Promoting Longevity
The Origins of Cellular Reprogramming
The idea of reprogramming cells stems from observing that children are born young, even though their parents are older, thanks to a process that resets and re-establishes epigenetic marks. Researchers have discovered that transient expression of proteins called Yamanaka factors can rejuvenate cells and extend the lifespan of mice showing premature aging.
The Role of DNA Methylation Clocks
The aging process is accompanied by changes in the epigenome, and one way to measure this aging is through DNA methylation clocks. Recent research has shown that reprogramming can reverse some of these clocks in healthy mice, raising hopes for lifespan extension and improved health in humans.
While safe consumer applications are not yet available, interventions such as reduced growth hormone signaling, microdosed lithium, glycine, alpha-ketoglutarate, gingerols, and pterostilbene can help maintain a younger epigenome.
The Role of PGC-1α and GSK3β: Mimicking Exercise Benefits
PGC-1α (Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha) plays a significant role in mitochondrial biogenesis, which is crucial for muscle function and respiration. Its activity is regulated by the stress-sensitive kinase protein GSK3β and the energy sensor AMPK. Increased PGC-1α levels or activity are associated with extended lifespan and improved mitochondrial function.
Caloric restriction and exercise are classic methods to activate PGC-1α. Interestingly, compounds like resveratrol and its more potent counterpart, pterostilbene, included in NOVOS Core, are considered “exercise mimetics” due to their ability to induce PGC-1α and potentially increase health span. These findings suggest that enhancing PGC-1α activity through diet and supplements could mimic the beneficial effects of exercise on aging.
Paving a Path to a Longer Life
Our exploration of epigenetic reprogramming and its implications for aging pathways sheds light on promising avenues for extending health span and rejuvenating cells. For a deeper dive into the rejuvenation of cells, tissues, and stem cells, we invite you to explore the complete article, The Pathways of Aging: Rejuvenation of Cells, Tissues, and Stem Cells.
