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Chromosomes in our cell nuclei carry a large part of genetic information in the form of DNS and in order to maintain proper cell function that must be protected. This task is performed by Telomeres which are the ends of chromosomes. Telomeres are nucleotide tandem repeats and the shortening of telomeres leads to cellular senescence and apoptosis which is a key mechanism of aging and age-related chronic diseases. Recent studies have shown that there is a growing evidence base of nutraceuticals that support the structure and function of telomeres. Consider the following evidence base:
Astragalus
Astragalosides (cycloastragenol) or the specific molecule TA-65 are proposed as telomeres. A clinical trial that showed improvements in immune function, eyesight, sexual function, and skin colour characteristics.1
Omega-3 fatty acids
In a group of patients with coronary heart disease, there was a inverse relationship between blood levels of marine omega-3 fatty acids and telomere shortening over a five-year interval.2
Antioxidants
The rate of telomere shortening is modulated by oxidative stress (certain in vitro).3 Breast cancer risk may be affected by telomere length in women with low intake of antioxidants or antioxidant supplements.4
Vitamin D
Higher vitamin D concentrations in serum are associated with longer telomere length.5
Folate/B12
Folate status alters telomere length in a non-linear manner probably by its effects on the integrity of DNA and epigenetic influences.6 Plasma homocysteine elevation due to folate and vitamin B12 deficiency is associated with decreased telomere length in older males.7
Nicotinamide
Nicotinamide extends the lifespan of human fibroblasts as a presumed consequence of reduce mitochondrial production of reactive oxygen species.8
Multivitamins
Epidemiological evidence associates multivitamin use with longer telomere length.9
Chinese ginger root
Evidence is emerging that ginger root may support telomerase lengthening and have other beneficial actions.
Alpha-tocopherol
Demonstrated to inhibit telomere shortening and retain telomerase activity in microvascular endothelial cells in the brain.10
N-acetylcysteine
N-acetylcysteine blocks the nuclear export of hTERT into cell cytoplasm and delays replicative senescence of endothelial cells that are attracted by reactive oxygen species.11
Statins
Treatment with statins increases lymphocyte telomere length.12 Statins interfere with redox balance of endothelial cells.13,14
Gingko biloba
Gingko biloba extracts have been show to delay the onset of cellular senescence by activating P13k/Aktsignaling pathways that augment telomerase activity.15
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