Kirin Holdings and the University of Tokyo discovered that as intestinal epithelial cells age, absorption of nutrients decreases. They say this discovery is a world first and could lead to innovations in functional ingredients to suppress intestinal aging.

Researchers used a model of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPS)-derived artificial intestinal organoids to identify epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a key mechanism of the aging process.

Researchers warn that reduced absorption of nutrients can lead to systemic health problems such as frailty.

“The effects of aging on nutrient absorption may differ depending on the type of nutrient. Going forward, it will be important not only to increase intake, but also to determine the optimal composition and formulation for older adults,” Dr. Tatsuhiro Ayabe of Kirin Holdings Research and Development Headquarters Central Research Institute told Nutrition Insight.

Kirin aims to create new functional materials that support intestinal health. We believe that maintaining intestinal health is the foundation of longevity, as intestinal health is related to whole-body aging, and decreased absorption of nutrients contributes to malnutrition in the elderly.

“Because nutritional function can change over the lifespan, we believe that nutritional strategies need to be optimized for each individual and life stage, rather than relying solely on dietary intake,” adds Ayabe.

Research on aging

Kirin points out that research on aging has become even more important in a super-aging society. However, it has been difficult to study intestinal aging because it is difficult to assess the mechanisms of intestinal aging in elderly people.

Decrease in the expression of genes related to nutrient absorption as cells age.This is why research and understanding of intestinal aging remains limited so far.

Kirin explains that EMT causes epithelial cells in the intestinal lining to lose their epithelial characteristics and acquire the characteristics of mesenchymal cells, which are more loosely organized than epithelial cells. This means that the barrier function of the inner tube wall against external threats may be weak.

Although EMT helps in wound healing, Kirin warns that excessive use is associated with pathological conditions such as tissue fibrosis and the development of cancer cell invasion and metastasis.

The study found that cellular senescence-induced reductions in gene expression are associated with reduced nutrient intake and increased expression of EMT-related genes.

“This study suggests that EMT may be a more direct cause of the decline in nutritional function than cellular aging itself,” says Professor Ayabe. “We believe this discovery will be critical in identifying appropriate targets as we move forward in developing solutions focused on nutritional function.”

“Human nutrition is an area where many molecular-level mechanisms are not fully understood. Leveraging biomimetic technologies, including intestinal organoids, offers the potential to increase the credibility of the evidence.”

However, challenges remain in translating cellular mechanisms into effective functional components.

“Based on the mechanisms identified in this study, a key challenge is to determine whether the effects experienced by individuals who consume functional ingredients can be assessed using measurable biological indicators,” Ayabe added.

Research content

In this study, the researchers induced cellular senescence in human small intestine organoids by treatment with the anticancer drug cisplatin. Quantitative PCR was used to assess gene expression and EMT. This allows researchers to amplify DNA while counting the amount of DNA they start with.

The research team used gene expression related to nutrient absorption to compare normal human intestines and aging organoids.

The researchers found that cellular aging reduces gene expression of SLC5A1, which is involved in glucose absorption, and SLC16A10, which is involved in amino acid absorption.

Biomimetic intestinal organoids show that nutrient absorption decreases with cellular aging, highlighting new targets for healthy aging solutions.The mechanism affecting nutrient absorption was found to increase the expression of TGFB1, a gene responsible for EMT, and mesenchymal cell marker genes (ACTA2 and CDH2).

Kirin and the University of Tokyo presented their research results at the 48th Annual Meeting of the Molecular Biology Society of Japan last month.

Emphasis on long life

As personalized nutrition and longevity goals gain momentum, Genomics helps fine-tune consumers Supplement strategies based on genetic makeup.

Learn about recent developments in healthy aging at PureHealth Research Launch of Youth Switch Long Life, Addresses telomere shortening, a fundamental aging marker. This supplement is a special blend of adaptogens and antioxidants that have been studied for their effects on telomerase activity and cell renewal.

Clinical studies have also shown that Euromed’s Pomanox pomegranate extract Improved important biomarkers Aiming for healthy aging. Meanwhile, another paper revealed that caffeine may play a role in: slow down the aging process At the cellular level.

Meanwhile, dsm-firmenich said: nutrition insights The study shows that many consumers understand the role of diet and nutrition in healthy aging, with more than half (52%) having a clear understanding. Linking healthy life expectancy and nutrition And wellness.