MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA — Researchers have discovered a natural product that can reduce the level of damaged cells in mice caused by aging. <br /><br />Scientists have found that aged mice treated with Fisetin, found in many fruits and vegetables, has significant positive effects on health and lifespan, according to a University of Minnesota Medical School press release. <br /><br />As people get older, they accumulate damaged cells. As these cells reach a certain level of damage they go through a process known as cellular senescence, whereby they stop dividing. <br /><br />Younger people with healthier immune systems can clear out these damaged cells, but as people age, these cells aren't cleared as effectively. <br />These damaged cells then begin to accumulate and cause low-level inflammation and release enzymes that degrade tissue. <br /><br />Researchers found that Fisetin reduced the level of damaged cells in older mice, and published their findings in the journal EBioMedicine. <br />According to one of the study's authors Paul D. Robbins, "these results suggest that we can extend the period of health, termed healthspan, even towards the end of life." <br />Further research will need to be carried out to see if these results can be reproduced in humans.
