Thursday, November 03, 2005
Nice Stems; Klotho!
A gene (and its protein) called Klotho, which has been indentified as an anti-aging factor, seems to have its effects by protecting cells against oxidative stress. Cool! Where can I buy Klotho supplements? (not.)
Another recent 'fountain of youth' target, adult stem cells, may or may not be as pluripotent as hoped. New research suggests that they may be partially differentiated: for instance, muscle stem cells can be coaxed into becoming heart muscle or skeletal muscle, but perhaps not, say, neurons or kidney cells. Still, new heart muscles would be a good thing to have on hand.
Another recent 'fountain of youth' target, adult stem cells, may or may not be as pluripotent as hoped. New research suggests that they may be partially differentiated: for instance, muscle stem cells can be coaxed into becoming heart muscle or skeletal muscle, but perhaps not, say, neurons or kidney cells. Still, new heart muscles would be a good thing to have on hand.
