The Secret to Healthy Aging? Scientists Reveal the Power of Selenoproteins
How Selenoproteins Protect Against Aging
Oxidative stress is a major contributor to age-related diseases. Over time, reactive oxygen species (ROS)—highly reactive molecules—accumulate in the body, damaging essential components like DNA and proteins. Scientists have long searched for ways to counteract this process, and selenoproteins might hold the key.
A research team from Osaka University has uncovered the antioxidant power of selenoproteins, showing how they prevent damage to blood and immune cells. Their findings, published in Blood, reveal that a lack of selenoproteins leads to premature aging at the cellular level, particularly affecting hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and B cells—key players in the immune system.
What Happens When Selenoprotein Production Is Disrupted?
To better understand the effects of selenoprotein deficiency, researchers studied genetically modified mice that lacked the ability to produce these enzymes. The results were striking:
- Reduced B cell numbers (B lymphocytopenia): The immune system became weaker.
- Impaired blood stem cell renewal: HSCs lost their ability to regenerate effectively.
- Increased oxidative stress: Excess lipid peroxides damaged essential cell functions.
- Age-related genetic changes: The mice exhibited gene expression patterns similar to those in older animals.
Can Diet Help Counteract Selenoprotein Deficiency?
One of the study’s most promising discoveries was the role of Vitamin E in protecting against oxidative damage. When researchers fed Vitamin E to selenoprotein-deficient mice, their blood cell health improved, and B cell function was partially restored.
“These findings suggest that dietary interventions could help mitigate aging-related changes caused by oxidative stress,” says Dr. Daichi Inoue, senior author of the study.
Implications for Healthy Aging
The study highlights the critical role of selenoproteins in preventing age-related diseases. Ensuring proper antioxidant balance—whether through nutrition, supplements, or future medical therapies—could be key to slowing down aging and maintaining a healthy immune system.
As research continues, one thing is clear: selenoproteins may hold the secret to healthy aging.
