Nature Study Reveals How Cold Triggers CAT-4 Enzyme and BH2 to Slow Aging

The Science Behind Longevity

According to НВ — Техно: Researchers have uncovered a molecular pathway activated by moderate cold exposure that slows down the aging process. Central to this discovery is the metabolite dihydrobiopterin (BH2), which plays a crucial role in decelerating cellular aging. The study was conducted on Caenorhabditis elegans nematodes and human cells, with findings published in the prestigious journal Nature.

Key Findings

The investigation demonstrated that cold temperatures stimulate the enzyme CAT-4, boosting the production of BH2. This metabolite subsequently converts into BH4, which supports the enzyme PAH-1 in synthesizing the amino acid tyrosine. Tyrosine has been shown to promote longevity and protect cells from harmful protein buildup. These protective effects were notably observed in cellular models simulating Huntington’s disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Experiments carried out at 15 °C on both nematodes and human cells revealed that supplementing BH2 reduces the accumulation of abnormal proteins in human cells. Moreover, combining BH2 with tyrosine alleviated signs of programmed motor neuron death linked to ALS-associated genetic mutations.

Activating CAT-4 specifically in muscle tissue also suggests that lifespan extension in worms can occur even under normal or elevated temperatures. Additionally, cold exposure triggers proteasomes, cellular complexes that degrade damaged and unnecessary proteins, contributing to overall cell health. This research was led by an international team, including molecular biologist David Vilches from the University of Cologne.

This newly identified cold-induced aging delay mechanism opens promising avenues for studying longevity and developing treatments for age-related diseases.

Source: Nature

Despite these promising findings, further research and clinical trials are essential before these discoveries can be translated into practical therapies.