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New York, Mar 4 – A groundbreaking study by researchers from Rutgers University’s New Jersey Medical School suggests that brown fat may play a crucial role in promoting healthier aging and enhancing physical fitness.
Published in Aging Cell, the study found that mice lacking a specific gene developed an advanced form of brown fat, leading to significant improvements in exercise capacity and a lifespan extension of approximately 30 percent. Encouraged by these results, the researchers are now investigating the potential for developing a drug that could replicate these effects in humans.
“Exercise capacity diminishes with age, and a method to enhance physical performance could be highly beneficial for healthful aging,” said Stephen Vatner, university professor and senior author of the study.
Unlike white fat, which primarily stores energy, brown fat is known for its ability to burn calories and regulate body temperature. This research further underscores its essential role in boosting exercise performance by improving blood circulation to muscles during physical activity.
The genetically modified mice in the study exhibited higher amounts of active brown fat, which resulted in a 30 percent increase in speed and endurance compared to normal mice. These mice, which lack a protein called RGS14, also demonstrated an increased lifespan of approximately 20 percent, with female mice living longer than their male counterparts—a trend that mirrors human longevity patterns.
The findings provide promising insights into aging and longevity. “Despite advancements in medicine, healthful aging has not kept pace with increased lifespans,” noted Vatner.
The study authors stress the need for further research into drugs modeled on healthful aging processes, which could help combat age-related conditions such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
Disclaimer: While the study presents promising results in mice, further research is needed to determine its applicability to humans. Any potential treatments or interventions would require extensive clinical trials to ensure safety and efficacy.
