From Proyar Laboratory, we want to share with you the 2nd part of an exclusive article for our clients, written by Dr. Jorge Alonso, MD, MN 67,640, Director of the Postgraduate Program in Phytomedicine at U.B.A., and President of the Latin American Society of Phytomedicine.

Natural Products and Human Longevity (Part 2) See first part

Scientific research has begun testing different substances, finding that several of them appear to act positively on telomerase. One of these substances is cycloastragenol, present in the root of an Asian botanical species known as astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus). This plant is known in China as huán qi (黃芪), which means “yellow leader,” and has a long history of traditional use, especially as an adaptogenic species for the elderly (enhancing physical and mental performance, immunity, and reducing fatigue). One practical challenge is that the amount of cycloastragenol in astragalus is very small, making its extraction difficult and consequently very costly.

Regarding the obtainment of this active principle, to get a quality extract, it is necessary to use astragalus grown under very specific conditions. The roots must be harvested after two years to allow them time to accumulate active substances. The subsequent production process is also complex and costly. It requires several stages of extraction and purification to specifically concentrate cycloastragenol. Currently, plant biotechnology processes have allowed for the in vitro propagation and cloning of species like astragalus, thus facilitating the acquisition of more raw material and a greater quantity of these active principles. This has led to the availability of standardized astragalus dietary supplements for sale.

One of the most significant findings is that cycloastragenol is capable of reactivating telomerase in human immune cells and neurons. This could lead to benefits for our immune system and a reduction in neurodegenerative diseases. In animal trials, it was observed that adding cycloastragenol to the food of mice increased the average length of their telomeres and slowed their aging process compared to normal mice. In a 2016 human study conducted in Spain, based on 97 volunteers over 53 years old, it was shown that taking one cycloastragenol capsule for one year resulted in a greater telomere length measured in white blood cells compared to a group of patients who had received a placebo.

In parallel, another substance called astragaloside IV has been discovered in the root of astragalus. This substance acts on cardiac function, maintaining a healthy vascular system and helping to regulate blood sugar. It also appears to have antioxidant properties that help maintain joint mobility and flexibility.

Another species relevant in anti-aging research is green tea (Camellia sinensis), whose main flavonoid is known as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). It has proven antioxidant activity, cardiovascular protection, regulation of lipid and sugar metabolism, and enhancement of cognition and the immune system. Research conducted in 2010 also found that EGCG from green tea plays a protective role on telomeres. The study determined that those who consume more than three cups of tea a day have longer telomeres than those who consume it only occasionally.

Continuing with research in the natural field, carnosine has been identified as another anti-aging factor and telomere protector. It is a protein found in muscles and the brain, known for its strong antioxidant power, its ability to limit protein glycation reactions, and its role in regulating acid-base balance. In this way, carnosine addresses the three factors that damage cells and are linked to aging: oxidation, glycation, and acidification. In 2004, it was discovered that carnosine is also a substance that protects telomeres. Similarly, another protein called sirtuin has been shown to preserve cellular function under conditions of caloric restriction and stress, leading to increased cellular longevity. Chia seeds, cinnamon, cocoa, olive oil, kale, and red wine have been shown to activate sirtuins.

One factor to consider in all of this is an amino acid known as homocysteine, which is synthesized from another amino acid: methionine. Its production essentially depends on the intake of meat products. As homocysteine levels increase, the risk of cardiovascular diseases rises, and the most concerning aspect is that, according to a 2008 study, homocysteine triples the rate at which telomeres shorten. One way to control elevated homocysteine is to follow a predominantly vegetarian or Mediterranean diet, while also supplementing with folic acid and vitamin B12, which help reduce its increase in the blood. In this way, both vitamins indirectly provide a protective effect on telomerases.

Another natural product of interest in this area is curcumin, found in the rhizome of Curcuma longa. Among the numerous benefits of curcumin are its anti-inflammatory, immunostimulant, hepatoprotective, antitumor, and antioxidant properties. Recent studies have shown that curcumin extends the lifespan of different strains of Drosophila melanogaster, known as vinegar flies or fruit flies, which are commonly used as a model in longevity studies. Additionally, resveratrol (a polyphenol found in wine, berries, peanuts, and cranberries) and quercetin (a flavonoid found in onions, elderberry, apples, spinach, kale, propolis, etc.) are noteworthy. When resveratrol is administered to mice, the group receiving this compound shows a longer life expectancy, apparently linked to its antioxidant protective effect on telomeres. Similarly, it has been shown to extend the lifespan of honeybees and the fish Nothobranchius furzeri. Quercetin has demonstrated strong antioxidant effects, improved immunity, and reduction of tumor and infectious agent invasion processes.

Finally, at an experimental level, some studies have shown that compounds such as vitamins B12, D3, and K2, Omega-3 oils, astaxanthin (from algae), coenzyme Q-10, and zinc have demonstrated the ability to activate telomerase in vitro. It goes without saying that what is observed in vitro or in animals does not always replicate in humans, but it is also true that this serves as the starting point for further research.