Secret of longevity found in low levels of oxidative stress

The most pronounced differences are found in proteins associated with oxidative stress— which is damage to cells by free radicals. In centenarians, the level of antioxidant enzymes was significantly lower than in octogenarian patients. This fact is explained by the fact that the body of people over the age of 100 initially produces fewer toxic forms of oxygen, so it does not need to produce a large number of protective proteins to combat them. The main sources of such damage are usually chronic inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction, which remain stable in this group.

The metabolic health of centenarians also exhibits unique characteristics related to fat and glucose processing. While the level of fat metabolism proteins and pro-inflammatory interleukin-1 alpha increases dramatically in most older people, these indicators remain low in study participants over the age of 100. In addition, the safety of the DPP-4 protein was found, which helps maintain insulin balance and protects the body from metabolic syndrome without the need to produce excessive amounts of hormones.

The condition of the extracellular matrix, which serves as the basis for tissues and organs, in Swiss centenarians also corresponds to the profile of younger people. Specific proteins have been identified that potentially play a protective role against the development of tumors. The data indicate that exceptional longevity is associated not with strengthening the protective systems, but with optimizing them and preventing the very appearance of damaging factors.

The genetic contribution to reaching the age of one century is estimated at about 25%, which leaves considerable room for lifestyle influences. Regular physical activity helps maintain tissue structure, and a balanced diet and lack of excess weight prevent metabolic disorders. For example, eating fruits and vegetables can reduce the level of oxidative stress in the blood throughout the day, bringing a person’s biochemical profile closer to those of centenarians.

The results obtained are planned to be used to develop new therapeutic methods to combat age-related infirmity. Understanding the molecular mechanisms that allow cells to remain young for a century makes it possible to create programs to improve the quality of life of the entire elderly population. The main conclusion emphasizes that longevity is the result of fine regulation of metabolism, in which the body functions as efficiently and economically as possible.