Scientists find way to slow aging in several organs

As people age, organs age at different rates, and researchers may have identified a key culprit. Blocking a specific receptor in immune cells can restore their function and slow age-related changes in multiple organs simultaneously, reports the website infohub.kz.

Neutrophils play a key role in the body as the first immune cells to respond to infection. They destroy bacteria, viruses, and fungi, then quickly die. Normally, old neutrophils should be removed from the body in a timely manner. This function is performed by macrophages—immune "cleaner" cells that engulf dead cells, tissue debris, and microorganisms, while also helping to control inflammation and repair damaged tissue.

In young people, macrophages effectively clear out aging neutrophils. However, with age, macrophages themselves begin to work less efficiently due to increased activity of the EP2 receptor, which is linked to inflammation. As a result, old neutrophils accumulate in tissues, release inflammatory substances, damage organs, and contribute to chronic inflammation and age-related changes.

In an experiment, scientists from the Stanford School of Medicine studied young and old mice, as well as human liver cells. Some animals were genetically modified so that their tissue macrophages lacked the EP2 receptor. Additionally, old mice were given an experimental drug blocking this receptor for two months. Researchers then compared organ condition, inflammation levels, physical activity, memory, and biochemical markers across animal groups.

Blocking the EP2 receptor restored macrophage function, reduced inflammation, and slowed age-related changes in multiple organs in mice, including the brain, heart, liver, kidneys, and intestines. The animals also showed improvements in memory, physical activity, and muscle tissue condition.

The findings suggest EP2 as a promising target for developing drugs that could slow age-related decline in body function. However, that is a topic for future research.

Previously, researchers from University College London concluded that regular engagement in creative and cultural activities can slow biological aging.