🔬TODAY’S BREAKTHROUGH
A groundbreaking study shows that aging isn't just driven by old cells, but by broken tissue. Fragments of the extracellular matrix (ECM) flood the body as we age, acting as potent, circulating drivers of chronic inflammation and systemic decline.
The Discovery:
Scientists discovered that elastin-derived fragments (E-motif) are the most potent driver of this systemic decline, shortening mouse lifespan by up to 17%. The fragments accelerate aging phenotypes, promoting obesity and chronic inflammation in mice and correlating with multiple poor aging indicators in humans.
The Science:
Serum levels of elastin, hyaluronic acid, and fibronectin fragments all positively correlate with age in both humans and mice, suggesting their role as aging biomarkers.
The toxic E-motif sequence in elastin fragments directly activates monocytes and macrophages through the NEU1 receptor, causing a systemic inflammatory response.
Blocking this signal with a NEU1 inhibitor (DANA) extended the lifespan of naturally aged mice and mitigated obesity, liver damage, and inflammation across pig and humanized mouse models.
The study establishes that degraded ECM is a major circulating driver of aging, accelerating immune dysfunction and metabolic decline.
Your Action:
The study highlights the potential of therapies that block the NEU1 receptor to counteract aging. Until then, you can minimize the source of these fragments. Reduce tissue damage through proper posture and low-impact exercise, and maintain high collagen levels to stabilize your ECM.
Bottom Line:
Degraded elastin acts as a circulating aging factor, but blocking its inflammatory signal offers a universal new strategy to extend healthspan and lifespan.
Source:
Elastin-derived extracellular matrix fragments drive aging through innate immune activation, Nature Aging, Junzhi Yi, et al.
https://doi.org/10.1038/s43587-025-00961-8
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Disclaimer:
This newsletter is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making any changes to your health regimen.