Garlic extract helps to strengthen muscles in old age
Researchers from the Institute for Research on Productive Aging (IRPA, Tokyo) and Wakunaga Pharmaceutical have discovered that the compound S-1-propenyl-L-cysteine (S1PC), found in aged garlic extract, helps to slow down age-related muscle degradation. The study, published in the journal Cell Metabolism, describes a unique mechanism in which the bioactive compound activates a signaling pathway between adipose tissue and the brain. This leads to increased sympathetic nervous stimulation of skeletal muscles, enhancing their strength and overall vitality.
The aging process is often accompanied by the development of muscle weakness that is not associated with specific clinical diseases, which significantly reduces the quality of life. The main action of the S1PC compound is aimed at activating the LKB1 enzyme, which is a key regulator of cellular metabolism. The activation of this enzyme triggers the SIRT1 signaling pathway in adipose tissue, which stimulates the secretion of the extracellular enzyme eNAMPT. The latter is transported by the bloodstream as part of extracellular vesicles and affects the hypothalamus, the regulatory center of the brain responsible for energy balance and nerve impulse transmission.
In experiments on laboratory mice, long-term administration of S1PC led to a statistically significant decrease in physical frailty, an increase in skeletal muscle strength, and stabilization of body temperature. An important step was the confirmation of a similar mechanism in humans: the administration of the compound increased the level of circulating eNAMPT in the blood, especially in individuals with sufficient adipose tissue. Thus, the preservation of this biological pathway was demonstrated in different biological species, opening up opportunities for the development of evidence-based anti-aging therapies.
The introduction of nutraceuticals based on aged garlic extract is considered a cost-effective and safe method for maintaining physical fitness in older adults. Unlike synthetic medications, S1PC has a favorable safety profile, which has been confirmed by the long-term use of the extract in traditional medicine without significant side effects. Incorporating this component into the daily diet can be an important element in preventing age-related frailty, complementing existing strategies for maintaining the level of the cofactor NAD+, which is essential for DNA protection and cellular energy production.
Despite the proven effectiveness of organ interaction, additional clinical studies are required to definitively confirm the long-term effects in humans. Scientists emphasize the need for a detailed examination of the impact of S1PC on hypothalamic functions and overall body endurance during long-term use.
Published
May, 2026
Category
Science
Duration of reading
3-4 min
Share
Source
Scientific Journal Cell Metabolism. Article: Garlic-derived metabolite activates LKB1, promotes adipose eNAMPT secretion and improves age-related muscle function via hypothalamic signaling
Don’t miss the most important science and health updates!
Subscribe to our newsletter and get the most important news straight to your inbox