Exercise Enzyme Keeps Brain Young
A new study identified the enzyme SIRT3—activated by physical exercise—as a critical factor in keeping the brain young. Regular physical activity appears to protect against age-related cognitive decline by enhancing SIRT3 activity in the brain, adding to scientific consensus on the holistic benefits of an active lifestyle.
- The research, led by Mark Mattson of Johns Hopkins Medicine and the National Institute on Aging, was conducted on mice. Scientists observed that mice genetically engineered to not produce SIRT3 were highly sensitive to stressors and experienced more significant brain neuron degeneration. - SIRT3 is one of seven sirtuin proteins, which are believed to play a role in aging and stress resistance. It is located in the mitochondria, the energy-producing centers of cells, and helps protect these powerhouses from the stress that can lead to energy loss in brain cells. - In the study, mice that exercised on a running wheel for 30 days showed significantly higher levels of SIRT3 in the hippocampus, a brain area crucial for learning and memory. Researchers were also able to protect neurons from stress by using gene therapy to increase SIRT3 levels. - The enzyme works by reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS), also known as free radicals, which cause oxidative damage and neuroinflammation. By activating an antioxidant enzyme called superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2), SIRT3 helps enhance neuronal survival. - SIRT3 expression naturally declines with age, which is correlated with a higher susceptibility to neurodegenerative diseases. Studies have shown that SIRT3 levels are significantly lower in post-mortem brain samples from patients with Alzheimer's disease. - In addition to exercise, research has shown that caloric restriction and fasting can also increase the expression of SIRT3 in various tissues, including skeletal muscle. - Pharmaceutical research is exploring the development of SIRT3 activators as a potential therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative diseases. Some natural compounds, including quercetin (found in onions and apples) and curcumin (found in turmeric), have been identified as potential SIRT3 activators.
