The article discusses a study led by the Instituto de Neurociencias at the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (INc-UAB) that demonstrates how increasing levels of the protein Klotho in its secreted form (s-KL) can prolong lifespan and improve physical conditions in mice. The research, published in the journal ‘Molecular Therapy,’ involved treating young mice with gene therapy vectors to enhance the secretion of s-KL. At 24 months of age, equivalent to around 70 human years, the researchers found that the treatment had enhanced the muscular, skeletal, and cognitive health of the animals.
The mice treated with s-KL lived between 15% and 20% longer and showed better physical performance, increased muscle regeneration capacity, and reduced fibrosis, all indicators of improved muscular health. Additionally, improvements were observed in bone health, particularly in females, with better preservation of bone structure, suggesting potential protection against osteoporosis. In the brain, s-KL treatment promoted the generation of new neurons and increased immune activity in the hippocampus, indicating potential cognitive benefits.
The use of viral vectors in the treatment involved introducing copies of the gene for the desired protein into the body’s cells, prompting them to autonomously produce it. In mice, these vectors were administered intravenously and cerebrally to ensure that brain cells also produced s-KL. While another option for humans could be direct administration of the protein as a drug instead of using viral vectors, finding the most efficient way to administer it and ensuring it reaches the target organs is still a challenge, as explained by lead researcher Joan Roig-Soriano from INc-UAB.
The research group had previously patented the use of Klotho to address cognitive deficits and, following this study, has generated three new patents protecting the use of Klotho for treating skeletal and muscular deficits, as well as for developing longevity-enhancing therapies. If a viable administration method is established, s-KL could significantly contribute to improving people’s quality of life.
FUENTE
