Researchers at the RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences (IMS) have made a groundbreaking discovery regarding age-related changes in lipid metabolism in mice. This study, published in Nature Aging, reveals a wealth of information that could revolutionize our understanding of chronic age-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, atherosclerosis, kidney disease, and cancer.
Lipids are crucial molecules in our bodies, serving as energy stores, signaling molecules, and components of cell membranes. As we age, our metabolism slows down, leading to weight gain and difficulty in losing weight. However, the specific impact of aging on lipid metabolism and its relationship to overall health and lifespan has remained largely unknown. In an effort to bridge this gap in knowledge, Hiroshi Tsugawa and his team at RIKEN IMS embarked on a comprehensive study to map out age-related changes in lipid metabolites using mice as models.
Employing cutting-edge techniques to analyze the lipidome of mice at different ages, the researchers identified a significant increase in BMP type lipids across various organs with aging. These lipids are involved in cholesterol transport and cellular recycling processes, and their accumulation could signify metabolic changes associated with aging, such as elevated levels of cholesterol derivatives in the kidneys.
The study further delved into the influence of gut bacteria on lipid metabolism, uncovering a unique increase in sulfonolipids in the liver, kidney, and spleen as mice aged. These lipids, produced by gut bacteria, have known immunomodulatory properties, prompting future investigations into their structure and functions. Additionally, sex-specific differences in the mouse lipidome were observed, particularly in the kidneys, where male mice exhibited higher levels of galactosylceramide compared to females due to increased expression of the UGT8 gene.
“Our research has provided a comprehensive overview of age-related changes in the mouse lipidome, creating a valuable global resource for future studies,” says Tsugawa. Moving forward, the team aims to extend their investigations to the human lipidome and microbiome, highlighting the potential for targeting lipid metabolism in the development of treatments for age-related conditions.
Understanding how lipid metabolism evolves with age is crucial for unraveling the intricacies of aging-related diseases and developing effective therapeutic strategies. By shedding light on the intricate interplay between lipid metabolism, gut bacteria, and sex-specific differences, this study paves the way for groundbreaking advancements in the field of aging research.
