Christopher Rollo
Department of Biology, McMaster University

Most studies testing simple nutraceutical supplements find little or no benefit for aging and associated pathologies. We developed a complex formulation (30 ingredients) to ameliorate five mechanisms of aging (free radicals, mitochondrial function, membrane integrity, insulin sensitivity and inflammation) and tested it in mice. Remarkably this supplement extends maximal longevity, maintains youthful cognitive abilities, prevents decline of spontaneous locomotor activity, reduces free radical stress, improves mitochondrial function and provides strong protection against radiation. Recent evidence suggests that stress resistance mechanisms slow aging and that growth and stress resistance are antagonistic. High protein diets that promote growth and reproduction may reduce stress resistance and life span. Interestingly, the tradeoff between growth and stress resistance traces to a molecular switch in a key pathway that regulates aging. Moreover, functions mediating both growth and stress resistance appear to reside in sleep.