Stress Protein May Prevent Aging
by Alan Muir
Researchers from the University of California, in collaboration with colleagues in Liverpool, England, found that the HSP10 protein that monitors protein interactions in the body can preserve muscle strength to inhibit the aging process. The HSP10 protein responds to environmental stress, such as infection and exercise, by increasing its production inside mitochondria to generate more energy to the muscles.
Approximately 25 to 30% of our muscle mass is lost between the ages of 50 and 70 years old. This leads to a loss of mobility and major injuries among people over the age of 65. HSP10 protein protects and restores cells to help prevent the loss of muscle mass, suggesting muscles can be preserved as we age. Scientists are now considering the use of an artificial HSP10 protein to increase production in the body and protect aging muscles.
Reference
Kayani AC, Close GL, Dillmann WH, Mestril R, et al. Overexpression of HSP10 in skeletal muscle of transgenic mice prevents the age-related fall in maximum tetanic force generation and muscle cross-sectional area. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol. 2010 April 21.
