Spermidine: a physiological autophagy inducer acting as an anti-aging vitamin in humans?

F Madeo, MA Bauer, D Carmona-Gutierrez… - Autophagy, 2019 - Taylor & Francis
Autophagy, 2019Taylor & Francis
Spermidine is a natural polyamine that stimulates cytoprotective macroautophagy/
autophagy. External supplementation of spermidine extends lifespan and health span
across species, including in yeast, nematodes, flies and mice. In humans, spermidine levels
decline with aging, and a possible connection between reduced endogenous spermidine
concentrations and age-related deterioration has been suggested. Recent epidemiological
data support this notion, showing that an increased uptake of this polyamine with spermidine …
Abstract
Spermidine is a natural polyamine that stimulates cytoprotective macroautophagy/autophagy. External supplementation of spermidine extends lifespan and health span across species, including in yeast, nematodes, flies and mice. In humans, spermidine levels decline with aging, and a possible connection between reduced endogenous spermidine concentrations and age-related deterioration has been suggested. Recent epidemiological data support this notion, showing that an increased uptake of this polyamine with spermidine-rich food diminishes overall mortality associated with cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Here, we discuss nutritional and other possible routes to counteract the age-mediated decline of spermidine levels.
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