Scientists find novel way to slow and even reverse aging of the heart
Exciting new research has uncovered a novel way to slow—and even reverse—heart aging, offering potential breakthroughs for cardiovascular health and longevity. Here’s what the science reveals:
Key Discovery: Targeting the “Zombie Cells” (Senescent Cells)
A study published in Nature Aging (2024) demonstrated that clearing senescent cells—old, dysfunctional cells that accumulate with age and cause inflammation—can rejuvenate the heart in animal models.
- Method: Senolytic drugs (like dasatinib + quercetin) or genetic removal of senescent cells reversed age-related heart stiffness, improved function, and reduced fibrosis.
- Mechanism: Senescent cells secrete inflammatory proteins (SASP) that damage heart tissue; removing them restores cellular health.
Other Promising Anti-Aging Heart Therapies
- NAD+ Boosters (e.g., NMN, NR)
- Restoring NAD+ levels (which decline with age) improves mitochondrial function and reduces oxidative stress in heart cells.
- Human trials show improved vascular function in older adults.
- Rapamycin & mTOR Inhibition
- Low-dose rapamycin (an immunosuppressant) extends lifespan in mice and protects against cardiac aging by enhancing autophagy (cellular cleanup).
- Young Blood Factors (e.g., GDF11)
- Controversial but intriguing: Infusions of young blood plasma or specific proteins like GDF11 have reversed heart hypertrophy in aged mice.
- Exercise Mimetics (e.g., PPAR-δ Activators)
- Drugs that mimic exercise’s effects on metabolism (e.g., GW501516) show promise in improving heart resilience without physical activity.
Lifestyle Interventions That Slow Heart Aging
- Caloric Restriction & Fasting: Reduces inflammation and boosts heart cell regeneration.
- High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): Reverses age-related decline in heart function.
- Polyphenol-Rich Diets: Flavonoids (in berries, dark chocolate) reduce cardiac senescence.
Future Outlook
Human trials are underway for senolytics (e.g., Unity Biotechnology’s UBX1325), with early data suggesting improved vascular function. While not yet FDA-approved for aging, these therapies could soon transition from lab to clinic.
The heart can be rejuvenated—by clearing senescent cells, boosting NAD+, or leveraging exercise/diet. For now, exercise, fasting, and senolytic supplements (like quercetin + fisetin) are the most accessible options.
Reference:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/scientists-find-novel-way-slow-reverse-aging-heart
https://www.aol.com/scientists-novel-way-slow-even-114500826.html
https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/can-we-slow-aging
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