If you’re finding you don’t have as much energy as you used to have, my friend Lon can help. No, he’s not a celebrity; he’s not a doctor; and he’s not particularly attractive – at least, not to humans. Lon is an enzyme.
The Lon protease is an enzyme abundantly present in human cells in youth. It protects our cells’ mitochondria, which act as energy generators or power stations by converting oxygen into energy. Scientists at USC find that, as we age, levels of the Lon protease decrease dramatically. With fewer enzymes to protect the mitochondria from damaging oxidants, the mitochondria function less efficiently, resulting in lower energy in the organism as a whole.
Could this study from the Journal of Gerontology point medicine toward new diets, medicines or treatments to slow the aging process? It’s not yet clear. Costly enzyme supplements have been ruled out, however: our digestive systems convert the supplements to amino acids before they can reach the cell.
Further studies are required, so as much as Lon protease may beckon, it’s probably wise to abstain for now.
