Category Biology/Biotechnology

Highlights •Mitochondrial dysfunction and defective mitophagy shown in A-T animal models •A-T laboratory animal models exhibit NAD+ depletion and impaired SIRT1 activity •NAD+ replenishment improves lifespan and healthspan in ATM− worms and mice •NAD+ ameliorates A-T phenotypes through upregulation of mitophagy and DNA repair

The coenzyme NAD+ plays a main role in aging processes. In mice and roundworm adding the substance can both extend life and postpone the onset of aging processes. New research conducted at the Center for Healthy Aging and the American National Institute of Health shows that this new knowledge will eventually be able to help patients with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

An international team of researchers from the Center for Healthy Aging at the Univers...

Soy protein isolate (SPI) may be one such dietary factor that promotes bone accretion during early life with persistent effects into adulthood.

Move over milk, soy protein early in life might be what’s needed for strong, healthy bones in adulthood. New research, published online in The FASEB Journal, reports that early dietary nutrition heavy in soy protein isolate can protect against serious bone loss during adulthood. This also is the first time that scientists have used an animal model to show concrete evidence of a protective effect of an early-life soy protein isolate diet on adult bone loss.

“Appropriate early-life nutrition can optimize peak bone mass,” said Jin-Ran Chen, M.D., Ph.D...

Ibuprofen arginine

Scientists used mice and rats to show ibuprofen arginate may allow people to take higher doses without the cardiovascular side effects that are associated with current formulations found in over the counter products. In addition to being better tolerated, ibuprofen arginate also is released into the bloodstream more rapidly than the current formulations, likely providing faster pain relief.

“While more experiments are required, our observations show that ibuprofen arginate provides, in one preparation, a COX-2 inhibitor and arginine supplement,” said Jane A. Mitchell, Ph.D...

Protective effects of mitochondria-targeted antioxidants and statins on cholesterol-induced osteoarthritis

High cholesterol might harm more than our cardiovascular systems. New research using animal models, published online in The FASEB Journal, suggests that high cholesterol levels trigger mitochondrial oxidative stress on cartilage cells, causing them to die, and ultimately leading to the development of osteoarthritis. This research tested the potential therapeutic role of mitochondria targeting antioxidants in high-cholesterol-induced osteoarthritis and provided proof-of-concept for the use of mitochondrial targeting antioxidants to treat osteoarthritis.

“Our team has already begun working alongside dietitians to try to educate the public about healthy eating and how to keep cholesterol...