Research on mice has found that restricting the intake of a specific amino acid called isoleucine can slow down aging and even increase lifespan. Isoleucine is an essential amino acid necessary for building proteins in the body, but excessive consumption can have negative effects.
Previous studies had linked high dietary isoleucine levels to metabolic issues, particularly among individuals with higher BMIs. Metabolism researcher Dudley Lamming from the University of Wisconsin led the new study, which involved genetically diverse mice fed varying diets containing different levels of amino acids.
The results showed that restricting isoleucine significantly increased lifespan and healthspan in the mice, reduced frailty, and promoted leanness and better blood sugar control. Male mice lived 33% longer than those with normal isoleucine intake, while females lived 7% longer.
The mice also performed better in various measures of health, including muscle strength and endurance. Interestingly, they ate more calories but lost weight and burned more energy, despite no change in activity levels.
While the findings are promising, translating them to humans is complicated due to the complexity of dietary interactions. The researchers acknowledge that restricting protein intake can have negative effects and suggest that fine-tuning the level of amino acid restriction may be necessary for optimal results.
The study’s lead author, Dudley Lamming, believes that focusing on a single amino acid like isoleucine can help understand biological processes and potentially develop interventions like an isoleucine-blocking drug. The research was published in Cell Metabolism.
Source: https://www.sciencealert.com/cutting-back-on-one-amino-acid-increases-lifespan-in-middle-aged-mice-up-to-33