Genetic activation of telomerase in mice significantly extended lifespan and improved healing of skin and intestinal injuries, without increasing cancer risk. This targeted intervention boosted cellular repair, antioxidant defences, and telomere length, offering a promising strategy for enhancing longevity and resilience to age-related decline.
Benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP) exposure damages DNA and accelerates ageing
Benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP), a common plasticiser, disrupts reproductive health by increasing DNA damage and oxidative stress. Exposure impairs chromosome stability and gene expression, potentially affecting fertility and ageing. Findings highlight concerns about environmental toxins’ impact on longevity and underscore the need for minimising exposure.
Unique gut mycobiome traits in long-lived individuals
Long-lived individuals exhibit unique gut fungal features, including enriched Candida enterotypes and maintained core taxa like Aspergillus and Penicillium. These fungal patterns, closely linked with beneficial bacterial traits, suggest a role in healthy ageing and longevity through gut microbiome balance and resilience​.
Understanding PFAS and their impact on longevity and ageing
Regulations on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as ‘forever chemicals’, are tightening due to their environmental persistence and potential health risks. Found in consumer products and water sources, stricter guidelines aim to reduce exposure and safeguard public health.
Navigating the festive season: 6 ways to protect your health gains
The festive season doesn’t have to derail your health goals. With mindful strategies like stress management, enjoying treats without guilt, staying active, and prioritising rest, you can maintain balance and vitality. Discover practical tips to navigate the holidays with ease and enjoy the moments that matter most.
Microplastics found in the brain and their impact on ageing
Researchers detected microplastics in human brain tissue using pyrolysis gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, indicating potential bioaccumulation. This finding raises concerns about microplastics’ impact on neurological health and ageing.
Boosting longevity through dietary fibres: The role of β-glucan
β-glucan from plant-based fibres reduced fat, improved glucose tolerance, and boosted energy expenditure in high-fat diet mice, with positive shifts in gut microbiota and increased butyrate levels. Other fibres showed limited impact.
Microplastics detected in human seminal fluid: Potential health risks
Microplastics were detected in human seminal fluid, raising concerns about their impact on male reproductive health and potential long-term effects on fertility and ageing. This study used Raman spectroscopy to highlight the prevalence of microplastic contamination in a sample of the general male population.
Mitochondrial disposal in ageing heart tissues and its impact on longevity
When lysosomal function is impaired, cells release dysfunctional mitochondria through large extracellular vesicles instead of breaking them down. This process occurs independently of autophagy, helps preserve cellular health, and is observed in aged or diseased heart tissues, offering insights into ageing and cardiac disease.
Efficient DNA-protein crosslink repair enhances longevity
Endogenous aldehyde-induced DNA-protein crosslinks (DPCs) are efficiently resolved by transcription-coupled repair (TCR), protecting against metabolic genotoxins. This process explains the molecular pathogenesis of diseases like AMeDS and Cockayne syndrome. Effective aldehyde clearance and TCR are crucial for maintaining genomic integrity in transcribed regions.