Scientists may have found a shortcut to calorie restriction’s anti-aging benefits
Moderate calorie restriction lowered an immune protein called C3 that appears to help drive chronic inflammation as the body ages. Blocking the same protein reduced age related inflammation in mice, raising the possibility that future treatments could mimic some benefits of calorie restriction without severe dieting.
Scientists may have uncovered a method to achieve some of the longevity advantages associated with calorie restriction without the associated downsides. A new study published in Nature Aging suggests that an immune protein called complement component 3 (C3) could hold the key. Yale researchers found that individuals who followed a moderate calorie restriction diet for two years developed stronger immune systems without experiencing negative effects on growth or reproduction.
During the study, participants reduced their calorie intake by 11-14% without feeling deprived. Researchers measured over 7,000 proteins in plasma samples collected over time, and one protein that stood out was C3. Levels of this immune protein declined significantly after calorie restriction. This finding is significant because C3 activation, a network of proteins that helps defend the body against pathogens, may contribute to chronic inflammation, which is a major feature of aging and age-related diseases.
The researchers hypothesized that calorie restriction has a beneficial effect independent of weight loss. To test this idea, they used a drug to inhibit C3 activation in mice, mimicking the effects of calorie restriction. The animals displayed less age-related inflammation, suggesting that reducing excessive C3 activity could potentially help extend health span in humans.
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