Isofalcarintriol, a polyacetylene found in carrots, promotes health and delays ageing. It activates defense mechanisms against oxidative stress, extends lifespan in worms, and in mice, improves glucose metabolism, enhances exercise capacity, and protects against age-related frailty. This compound works by inhibiting mitochondrial ATP synthase, triggering increased resistance to oxidative stress through NRF2 and AMPK pathway activation.
December 2023 – Nature Communications
Key takeaways
- Isofalcarintriol in carrots: Isofalcarintriol, a naturally occurring polyacetylene isolated from carrots, stands out for its health-promoting properties. Its presence in a common vegetable like carrots highlights an accessible source of this beneficial compound
- Extended lifespan in worms: Research indicates that isofalcarintriol significantly extends the lifespan of worms. This finding is crucial as it suggests that similar mechanisms might be at play in higher organisms, potentially including humans, offering a natural way to promote longevity
- Improved health in mice: In mouse models, isofalcarintriol demonstrates a range of health benefits. It not only improves glucose metabolism, which is vital for energy balance and preventing age-related metabolic diseases, but also enhances exercise capacity, an indicator of overall health and vitality. Additionally, it provides protection against frailty, a common concern in ageing populations
- Mechanism of action: The effectiveness of isofalcarintriol is attributed to its ability to inhibit mitochondrial ATP synthase. This inhibition triggers a cascade of biological responses, including the activation of NRF2 and AMPK pathways. These pathways are known for their role in defending against oxidative stress, a key factor in ageing and age-related diseases. This mechanism of action highlights the potential of targeting mitochondrial functions to promote health and longevity
Read the article at: Thomas, C., et al. A naturally occurring polyacetylene isolated from carrots promotes health and delays signatures of aging. Nat Commun 14, 8142 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-43672-7