A study published today in Aging Cell indicates that triggering a protein governing energy levels could help organisms live longer, with some cases showing an extension of over 25%.
Researchers from the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences (MRC LMS), Imperial College London, and the University of Cologne, along with collaborators, used a drug to specifically activate adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), an enzyme that monitors energy levels within cells.
This activation led to anti-ageing effects in various species, including fission yeast, nematode worms, and fruit flies. Dr. Helena Cochemé, who leads the Redox Metabolism Group at MRC LMS, stated that this is the first demonstration that directly targeting AMPK with a drug can offer longevity benefits in living organisms.
Professor David Carling, who leads the Cellular Stress Group at MRC LMS, noted that directly activating AMPK could lead to cleaner results without potential side-effects. Professor Filipe Cabreiro, from MRC LMS and the University of Cologne, highlighted that improving health in older age would be highly beneficial, as ageing is a major risk factor for numerous diseases.