A compound derived from aged garlic has been found to preserve muscle strength in old age, a discovery that underlines the anti-ageing potential of the common kitchen ingredient. The ageing population, with increasing cases of muscle frailty in older individuals, has been adding to the healthcare burden worldwide. Scientists have been actively seeking potential drug candidates that could target aged tissues in the body and restore them to their younger forms.
Study Findings on S1PC
A new study has revealed that S1PC, a compound found in aged garlic, promotes communication between fat tissue, muscles, and the brain, ultimately enhancing muscle strength with age. This finding could lead to the development of new supplements aimed at improving muscle frailty in aged individuals. Kiyoshi Yoshioka, an author of the study published in the journal Cell Metabolism, stated, "We hope our findings will help improve fitness and muscle strength in older individuals by the simple inclusion of a nutraceutical as part of the daily diet."
Mechanism of Action
In the study, researchers observed that S1PC triggers a cascade of changes in mice, leading fat tissues to secrete the enzyme eNAMPT. This enzyme promotes the production of NAD+ in muscle tissues, an essential molecule involved in cell protection, DNA repair, and energy production. The eNAMPT enzyme also travels through the bloodstream and acts on the brain's hypothalamus, contributing to improved muscle function. Shin-ichiro Imai, another author of the study, noted, "Our findings present a previously unrecognised and unique function of S1PC."
Potential Anti-Ageing Effects
Through its actions, scientists say S1PC promotes inter-organ communication that "ameliorates muscle frailty." They anticipate that S1PC is likely to have a broader anti-ageing effect that warrants detailed investigation. Long-term administration of S1PC to mice reduced their frailty scores and increased skeletal muscle force, as per the study. Aged garlic is part of several traditional medicine systems, consumed for generations with no reports of adverse events, suggesting a favourable safety profile, scientists note.
Future Research Directions
Dr. Imai added, "We have succeeded in expanding the current understanding of how different organs coordinate responses during ageing. Further research is needed to determine improvements in muscle function in humans and to evaluate the long-term effects of S1PC. The presence and possible role of LKB1 in the brain also needs evaluation."
