Telomere length has become a useful biomarker of cellular aging.
Studies show plenty of triggers that accelerate telomere shortening, including oxidative stresses and chronic silent inflammation.
Telomeres were first discovered in 1971 by the Russian biologist Alexei Olovnikov.
In 2009, the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was given jointly to three US scientists: Elizabeth H. Blackburn, Carol W. Greider and Jack W. Szostak, for the discovery of “how chromosomes are protected by telomeres and the enzyme telomerase.”
So, what are telomeres? And why are they such an important discovery?
Our body tissues are made of cells that have joined together to perform specific functions. Each cell is comprised of smaller components called organelles, one of which is called the nucleus. The nucleus contains structures called chromosomes that are actually "packages" of all genetic information passed from parents to their children.
In order to grow and age, our bodies must duplicate their cells. This process is called mitosis. Mitosis is a process that allows one "parent" cell to divide into two new "daughter" cells. During mitosis, cells make copies of their genetic material; half of the genetic material goes to each new daughter cell. To make sure that information is successfully passed from one generation to the next, each chromosome has a special protective cap called a telomere located at the end of its "arms.” Telomeres are controlled by the presence of the enzyme telomerase.
Telomeres function by preventing chromosomes from losing base pair sequences at their ends. They also stop chromosomes from fusing to each other. However, each time a cell divides, some of the telomere is lost (usually 25-200 base pairs per division). When the telomere becomes too short, the chromosome reaches a "critical length" and can no longer replicate. This means that a cell becomes "old" and dies by a process called apoptosis.
The result of aging cells is an aging body. If telomerase is activated in a cell, the cell will continue to grow and divide.
Cellular aging, or senescence, is the process by which a cell becomes old and dies. Senescence occurs due to the shortening of chromosomal telomeres to the point that the chromosome reaches a critical length. Telomerase research could therefore yield important discoveries related to the aging process.
Scientists are on the verge of discovering many of telomerase's secrets. In the future, their research in the area of telomerase could uncover valuable information to combat aging.
One could have a blood test that shows their telomeres status, and their corresponding biological age.
While aging is a many-faceted process, a clear-cut biomarker for aging at the cellular level has been found in measurements of telomere length.
While shortening telomeres accelerates cellular aging, nutrients that promote telomere repair and sustain telomere length have proven health benefits.
Lifestyle changes are important in telomere health. People can also help protect their telomeres by lowering levels of mental and physical stress, decreasing environmental toxins and stresses, and eating a healthy diet with adequate levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The most important way to protect telomeres is to fight chronic silent inflammation.
Some people may want extra help in battling the effects of telomere aging and shortening. One of the essential supplements is TA-65 -- a patented extract from Astragalus. Most people who use this supplement report that they noticed improvement in their skin and immune system function, vision, libido, and quality of sleep. T-65 also works well in synergy with whole Astragalus extract.
The specific synergy of ingredients in Longevity Telomeres Protection promote the normal, healthy biological function of every cell in the body to support cellular vitality, graceful aging, and vibrant health.
Longevity Secret’s unique proprietary technology of dual and triple liquid extracts from whole-raw organic herbs possess superior bio-efficacy. They are the most potent extracts available on the market and have no therapeutic comparison.
Ashwagandha root extract can reduce brain cell degeneration and improve memory. Emotional, physical, and chemical stress can all have damaging effects to the brain and nervous system. Recent research has proven that ashwagandha is more than a stress reliever, it also protects the brain from cell degeneration, which can lead to neurodegenerative diseases. One of the main reasons ashwagandha is so effective at healing the brain is because it contains powerful antioxidants that destroy the free radicals that cause aging.
Withaferin A and withanolide D are the two main withanolides in ashwagandha that are used to improve cognitive function. Withanolides are naturally occurring steroids that are commonly present in plants of the nightshade family. Researchers found that they helped to promote cell outgrowth and reverse behavioral deficits and plaque buildup.
A recently published study on ashwagandha extract (KSM-66) shows an anti-aging effect with a telomerase promotion effect in the human cell line.
Astragalus root extract supports and protects telomere length, helps maintain healthy heart function, and supports immune function by contributing to the healthy production and activity of specialized white blood cells.
Astragalus (TA-65) has been implicated in increasing telomerase activity and telomere length, resulting in healthier cell longevity. Some elements found in astragalus fight free radical damage and prevent oxidative stress. The herb’s polysaccharides have positive effects on the immune system and improve brain function, which could lengthen lifespan. Many anti-aging beauty creams are also formulated with astragalus root.
Recent studies document the protective effect of astragalus extract on the mitochondria. The mitochondria may also be a factor in some cardioprotective effects of astragalus, and is more effective when paired with Angelica Sinensis.
Astragalus has been shown to decrease the rate of telomere shortening
Gynostemma has been revered for millennia for its ability to prolong life. This is how it acquired its nickname: the “herb of immortality.”
When Gynostemma was first discovered in rural China, the people in the local region who took the herb were found to have significantly longer life spans, less disease and greater vitality. This discovery prompted Chinese and Japanese researchers to intensively study the herb, finding that certain plant saponins known as "gypenosides" seem to be responsible for the many benefits of Gynostemma.
Compounds in Gynostemma appear to stop the DNA from being degraded and broken down too quickly. Gynostemma has been found to stop and even reverse the process of erosion of the telomeres, and the effects of Gynostemma on telomeres make it one of the most powerful longevity substances ever known.
Recent research indicates that Gynostemma actually contains over 80 different saponins, compared to the 28 found in Ginseng; some have even referred to the herb as “ginseng on steroids.” Gynostemma protects and enhances the function of the centrals nervous system and the peripheral nervous system through its antioxidant properties and its ability to regulate nitric oxide production. Nitric oxide protects nerve cells from damage and prevents radical damage from cell death.
Bitter Melon fruit extract provides antioxidant support to protect DNA from the damaging free radicals that play a role in aging. It also helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity.
Red Grape Skin & Seed extract is the most powerful antioxidant available. It acts as a free radical scavenger in the body by donating beneficial electrons that help stop the cascade of oxidation, a process which can slow the aging process.
Turmeric root extract supports healthy cell division and the detoxification of aging cells to promote a healthy inflammatory response and support for brain function. It also boosts mitochondrial activity to maximize oxygen utilization and tissue repair.
Pomegranate Peels and Seeds extract is highly effective in the suppression of free radicals for a healthy inflammatory response. It also supports healthy cell replication and heart function, exercise tolerance, and healthy prostate and breast tissue.
Parsley is a great source of apigenin, a powerful plant flavonoid that supports brain cell protection and cognitive function. It also promotes superoxide dismutase production, an enzyme that helps break down potentially harmful oxidation in cells for a healthy inflammatory reaction.
Kale (& Spinach) are rich in vegetable carotenoids, such as Lutein, that contribute to longer telomeres.
Panax Ginseng extract supports molecular integrity, healthy inflammatory response, and stem cell health. It also helps maintain a healthy stress response and promotes healthy cell metabolism.
Cat’s Claw, also known as the “Sacred Herb of the Forest,” has been revered for centuries for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties. The Amazon rainforest produces some of the most potent herbal medicines used around the world. Studies demonstrate the herb’s ability to significantly enhance the body’s natural ability to repair damaged DNA.
Bayberry Root Bark extract is a source of myricetin, a natural flavanol that is structurally similar to luteolin, and quercetin. It is reported to have many of the same functions as these other members of flavonoids with therapeutic antioxidant properties. Myricetin, a natural flavanol with diverse biological activities, may impact mitochondrial function and longevity. Myricetin also enhances the effects of other antioxidants and is effective in protecting cells from carcinogenic mutation.
A growing body of literature provides evidence that myricetin can prevent or decelerate the progression of various diseases, including cancer, metabolic disease, neurodegenerative diseases, and inflammatory disorders, as well as extend lifespan. These results demonstrate that myricetin enhances mitochondrial activity to improve physical endurance, strongly suggesting myricetin as a mitochondria-activating agent. Given the close association between aging, longevity and mitochondrial function, research suggests that a small-molecular activator of SIRT1 can display anti-aging efficacies.
Green Tea leaf extract supports cell membrane integrity and helps reduce fat storage to support hormone sensitivity, the ability of the cell membrane to accept hormones. It also supports healthy cortisol function, cholesterol levels and lipid profiles.
Indian Kino contains a substance called “pterostilbene,” which is similar but much more efficacious than resveratrol in reversing cognitive deficits. Pterostilbene has also been shown to reduce colon tumors, reduce pro-inflammation cytokines, and reduce Alzheimer pathology. This antioxidant also naturally occurs in blueberries and grape leaves.
Pterostilbene is better absorbed, and more biologically active than resveratrol. Also, it is metabolically more stable than resveratrol and confers intended benefits without undergoing extensive metabolism.
Due to the proven benefits of the Indian Kino tree, more studies are being conducted using Pterocarpus Marsupium in combination with other herbs to discover its wide-ranging health benefits.
One of the most impressive studies showed that it may contribute to extending life. Indian Kino extract may offer significant breakthroughs for human health.
Japanese knotweed. The health benefits of Japanese knotweed include its ability to prevent and treat cognitive disorders, improve heart health, lower the risk of cancer, reduce gastrointestinal distress, lower blood pressure, and maintain proper insulin levels.
Several studies have reported the autophagy-inducing effects of resveratrol. Resveratrol simulates caloric restriction in the absence of actual nutrient deficiency by activating sirtuins (SIRT1 is the human homolog) and has been shown to increase lifespan.
Japanese Knotweed contains lots of resveratrol, one of the best anti-aging compounds in the natural world