Omega-3s may delay aging by ‘reprogramming energy metabolism’
Data from the mouse study showed that omega-3s, and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) in particular, may activate PPAR-alpha (peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor-alpha), which plays an important role in a number of functions, including energy and lipid metabolism, inflammation, brain function and diabetes.
The fatty acids were also associated with elevations in the production of ATP (Adenosine triphosphate), the energy source for tissues, reported scientists from Southern Medical University (Guangzhou), Zhejiang University (Hangzhou), and Guangdong University of Technology (Guangzhou).
“Our research confirms the anti-aging effects of omega-3 PUFAs in multiple organs and provides strong evidence to support the idea of daily supplementation of omega-3 PUFAs, with caution of effective forms and purity, to help healthy aging,” they wrote in Pharmacological Research.
Intriguing results
Commenting independently on the study's findings, Harry Rice, PhD, VP of regulatory and scientific affairs at the Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega-3s (GOED), told NutraIngredients: “The present results are intriguing, to say the least. If additional research finds the present results can be generalized to humans, that would provide yet one more reason to take a daily EPA/DHA rich supplement.
“Today, if you're looking for a compelling reason to take an EPA/DHA rich supplement to slow down the aging process, consider the research demonstrating that EPA/DHA attenuates the shortening of telomeres.
“As a quick primer, telomere length shortens with age, and shorter telomeres have been associated with increased incidence of diseases. No one lives forever, but everyone should live the healthiest life they can. I would argue that taking a daily EPA/DHA rich supplement, along with a healthy diet and exercise, will help you achieve that goal!”
Study details
For the new study, the researchers performed a series of experiments, feeding old and young mice control diets and a customized diet supplemented with 4% (w/w) EPA. Another study used Mfat-1 transgenic mice, which are engineered animals that can synthesize their own omega-3s.
Results showed that the organ function of old mfat-1 transgenic mice was largely preserved and maintained, while pathological changes in multiple organs were also effectively mitigated.
“Similar results could be seen in natural aging mice and accelerated aging mice with EPA supplementation,” the study noted.
Additional analysis showed that omega-EPA supplementation activated PPAR-alpha, which significantly boosted both fatty acid β-oxidation and ATP production.
“Consequently, omega-3 PUFAs effectively inhibited age-related pathological changes, preserved organ function and retarded aging process,” the researchers wrote.
“In conclusion, our study innovatively demonstrated omega-3 PUFAs administration in diet slow aging through promoting energy metabolism. The supplement of omega-3 PUFAs […] provides a promising therapeutic approach to promote healthy aging in the elderly.”
Source: Pharmacological Research
Volume 208, Oct. 2024, 107384, doi: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107384
“Omega-3 PUFAs slow organ aging through promoting energy metabolism”
Authors: Yabing Xiong et al.
