Asparagine prevents intestinal stem cell aging via the autophagy-lysosomal pathway.

Ting Luo, Liusha Zhao, Chenxi Feng, Jinhua Yan, Yu Yuan, Haiyang Chen

Center of Gerontology and Geriatrics and Laboratory of Stem Cell and Anti-Aging Research, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Health and Multimorbidity, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.Center of Gerontology and Geriatrics and Laboratory of Stem Cell and Anti-Aging Research, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Health and Multimorbidity, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China. · pubmed

Paper

Abstract

The age-associated decline in intestinal stem cell (ISC) function is a key factor in intestinal aging in organisms, resulting in impaired intestinal function and increased susceptibility to age-related diseases. Consequently, it is imperative to develop effective therapeutic strategies to prevent ISC aging and functional decline. In this study, we utilized an aging Drosophila model screening of amino acids and found that asparagine (Asn), a nonessential amino acid in vivo, exhibits its profound anti-aging properties on ISCs. Asn inhibits the hyperproliferation of aging ISCs in Drosophila, maintains intestinal homeostasis, and extends the lifespan of aging flies. Complementarily, Asn promotes the growth and branching of elderly murine intestinal organoids, indicating its anti-aging capacity to enhance ISC function. Mechanistic analyses have revealed that Asn exerts its effects via the activation of the autophagic signaling pathway. In summary, this study has preliminarily explored the potential supportive role of Asn in ameliorating intestinal aging, providing a foundation for further research into therapeutic interventions targeting age-related intestinal dysfunction.

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Research summary

The paper investigates the role of asparagine in preventing intestinal stem cell aging, which is directly related to the mechanisms of aging and lifespan extension. It explores a potential therapeutic strategy to ameliorate age-related decline in stem cell function, making it relevant to longevity research. However, while the findings are solid and contribute to understanding the relationship between amino acids and aging, the impact is limited as it primarily focuses on a specific model organism (Drosophila) and requires further validation in more complex systems before broader implications can be drawn.

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