Turn Back The Clock 

There is no single secret ingredient in life to prevent all aches, pains, and illnesses, but there are a range of measures that can give the very best chance of staying healthy and happy. Learn more about Mitochondria and how you can turn back the clock 

Introduction and background

In the mid-1950s, Professor Denham Harman from the University of Nebraska Medical Center, proposed the theory that aging results from accumulated damage inflicted by free radicals. Initially the theory had little support. However, with the discovery of mitochondrially produced hydrogen peroxide, the theory gained increased acceptance. Further support came from studies demonstrating that administering externally produced antioxidants and heightening antioxidant expression within the body increased some invertebrate lifespans.

In 1972, Professor Harman proposed the Mitochondrial Theory of Aging (MTA), which is considered an extension of the free radical hypothesis. According to this theory, aging is due to the cumulative effects of damage wrought by free radicals on the mitochondrial DNA and function.

To better understand the mitochondrial theory of aging, it is necessary to understand something about mitochondria.

Mitochondria are rod-shaped, double-membraned cellular organelles around 0.5-10mM in length. First identified in the 1840s, mitochondria are now known to regulate iron metabolism, programmed cell death, and cellular division and differentiation. Mitochondria also produce roughly 90 percent of the cell’s energy needs, in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Not surprisingly, they are concentrated in organs that require the most energy, like the brain, heart and liver.

Mitochondria, aging 

Aging is defined as a degenerative process that is associated with progressive accumulation of deleterious changes with time, reduction of physiological function and increase in the chance of disease and death. Studies over several species have revealed a wide spectrum of alterations in mitochondria and mitochondrial DNA with aging. These changes include: 

• Increased disorganization of mitochondrial structure
• Decline in mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation function,
• Accumulation of mtDNA mutation,
• Increased mitochondrial production of reactive oxygen species
• Increased extent of oxidative damage to DNA, proteins, and lipids.

Mitochondria use oxygen to breakdown carbohydrates and fats to provide energy. But, with aging, these cell-drivers can release damaging particles as a waste product which can cause arteries to deteriorate because of oxidative damage.

Supplements now exist which can improve mitochondrial function and lead to improved health. Since they are supplements, they provide a safer alternative to the replacement therapies, and they can be used by both men and women.

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