A new molecule developed by Israeli scientists at Hebrew University
in Jerusalem may prevent age-related diseases such as Alzheimer’s and
Parkinson’s with a constant renewal of cell vitality in diseased
tissues.
A new study led by Professors Einav Gross and Shmuel Ben-Sasson of
the Faculty of Medicine at the Hebrew University (HU) has identified a
group of molecules that enable cells to repair damaged components,
making it possible for those tissues to retain proper function. The
efficacy of the molecules was demonstrated on a model organism.
Professor Shmuel Ben-Sasson The research team examined the effect of various therapies on
longevity and quality of life, and successfully proved they can protect
the cells from damage.
Currently, a major factor in ageing tissues is the reduced
effectiveness of the cell’s quality-control mechanism, which leads to
the accumulation of defective mitochondria.
Prof. Gross explained that “mitochondria, the cell’s ‘power plants,’
are responsible for energy production. They can be compared to tiny
electric batteries that help cells function properly. Although these
‘batteries’ wear out constantly, our cells have a sophisticated
mechanism that removes defective mitochondria and replaces them with new
ones.”
However, this mechanism declines with age, leading to cell dysfunction and deterioration in tissue activity.
This degenerative process lies at the heart of many age-related
diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, heart
failure and sarcopenia, which are on the rise. Gross and Ben-Sasson’s
study may have far-reaching practical applications since their new
technology, developed at Hebrew U., helped create innovative compounds
to treat diseases that are currently incurable.
The study also showed that these molecules can be used preventively.
“In the future, we hope we will be able to significantly delay the
development of many age-related diseases and improve people’s quality of
life,” shared Ben-Sasson.
To advance their important research and translate it into medical
treatment for a variety of patients, the research team, together with
Yissum, Hebrew University’s tech transfer company, established
Vitalunga, a startup that is currently developing this drug.
“Ben-Sasson’s and Gross’s findings have significant value for the
global ageing population,” noted Itzik Goldwaser, CEO of Yissum. “As
Vitalunga advances towards pre-clinical studies, they’re closer than
ever to minimising the unbearable burden that ageing-related diseases,
such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, have on individuals, their
families, and our health care systems.“
1 comment:
Probably gives you a craving for smoked salmon and creamed cheese.
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