​An unknown group of cells that accelerate ageing identified​

A group of scientists from China have identified the cells that speed up ageing process. As per an unedited paper published by the peer-reviewed journal Nature on October 31, these cells surrounds the motor neurons in the spinal cord and are responsible for Parkinsonian gait, a symptom commonly seen in the elderly people; this is also known as shuffling gait.

​They secrete a toxic protein​

“These distinct cell clusters must have a specific life purpose. Our further investigation revealed that they secrete a ‘toxic’ protein that contributes to accelerating the ageing of motor neurons,” Liu Guanghui from the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Zoology told the media, South China Morning Post reported.

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​How does it work?​

The group of cells release chitinase 1 (CHIT1) protein that accelerates aging process in motor neurons; otherwise this protein is present in very low concentrations in the body. “CHIT1 can help the body fight against pathogens containing chitin but in some circumstances can be activated to multiply by thousands of times, leading to inflammation or damage, the researchers found,” the media reported citing the findings of the study.

​How is this study relevant?​

Motor neurons control the body’s movement. They direct the skeletal muscles in the body and are considered to be the most sensitive cells in the spinal cord. “Our research also confirms that motor neurons are the most sensitive cells in the spinal cord when it comes to ageing,” the paper said. Researchers have observed higher concentration of CHIT1 protein in the cerebrospinal fluid and serum of elderly people.

​How to reverse aging?​

The researchers tested whether vitamin C can act on the CHIT1 protein and slow down the aging process. Vitamin C was given to 10 cynomolgus monkeys aged 17-18 years. The monkeys were given a daily dose of vitamin C at 30mg/kg. As per the media report: The researchers reported a “significant” improvement in the ageing-related indicators for the elderly monkeys’ motor neurons, suggesting that oral vitamin C supplements could be beneficial.

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