Imagine sippin’ on a magical tonic that could help you live longer and stay healthier! Well, scientists have discovered that a special ingredient found in ginseng, called total ginsenosides (TGGR), can actually extend the lifespan of fruit flies, or Drosophila melanogaster. Not only that, but TGGR also improved the flies’ overall health and made them more resistant to certain stresses. It’s like giving them a secret superpower! The best part is that TGGR worked its wonders when given during the early adult stage and midlife of the fruit flies. So timing is key! Scientists found that TGGR affects important signaling pathways related to insulin, TOR, and MAPK, which are like the communication networks in our bodies. By studying these pathways and understanding their role in aging, researchers hope to develop new anti-aging drugs for humans! Want to learn more about how ginseng extract can make fruit flies ‘fly’ through life with ease? Check out the full research article!
In an increasingly aged global population, achieving healthy life expectancy through natural and safe drug interventions is highly desirable. Here we show that total ginsenosides (TGGR), the main active components in the traditional Chinese medicine, ginseng, promote longevity across species. In Drosophila, an intriguing effect of TGGR on lifespan was the relatively narrow treatment window to elicit long-term benefits. TGGR administration during early adulthood, and especially during midlife, was sufficient to extend lifespan in both sexes. TGGR did not increase lifespan by reducing food intake or reproductive capacity; rather, TGGR increased the fertility of male Drosophila. TGGR augmented healthspan readouts associated with youth and with healthy aging, such as motility, intestinal barrier integrity, and biorhythm homeostasis. TGGR treatment also improved some types of stress resistance in both sexes, including increased tolerance to starvation and oxidation, and shifting “aged” gene expression patterns toward “healthy” patterns seen in the young. Gene expression, pharmacological and genetic epistatic analyses demonstrated that TGGR effects require normal expression of genes involved in insulin, TOR and MAPK signaling. The positive effects of TGGR on both healthspan and lifespan, coupled with its mechanism of action via evolutionarily conserved signaling pathways, demonstrate it to be a promising anti-aging drug.
Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.
Armed with a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in his field, Dr. Lowemann has consistently been at the forefront of research and innovation, delving into ways to optimize human performance, cognition, and overall well-being. His work at the Institute revolves around a profound commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to help individuals lead more fulfilling and intelligent lives.
Dr. Lowemann’s influence extends to the educational platform BetterSmarter.me, where he shares his insights, findings, and personal development strategies with a broader audience. His ongoing mission is shaping the way we perceive and leverage the vast capacities of the human mind, offering invaluable contributions to society’s overall success and collective well-being.