Understanding Deregulated Nutrient Sensing, A Hallmark of Aging
Deregulated nutrient sensing refers to an imbalance in nutrient detection and allocation in the body. It's one of the hallmarks of aging due to its downstream implications in impairments in cellular health. So how do things get deregulated? And why is this such a big deal? Let’s dig in.
Nutrient sensing refers to a complex mechanism involving the detection and maintenance of nutrient balance within the organism. The term ‘nutrient’ typically refers to macronutrients, although in the case of aging, much of this discussion can be applied to micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals. Internal nutrient levels fluctuate due to many factors–nutrient intake, usage within the body, and elimination. Without proper detection, it’s like being in a pitch-black room trying to work–or make dinner–or do just about anything. How do you know what ingredients you have if you can’t see them? How are you going to properly fuel your body in an efficient way? Sure, there are ways…smell, taste, but it slows down the process, sometimes irrevocably.
For example, amino acids are the backbone for all proteins. The synthesis of protein in the body is a finely tuned complex process and is critical to the functioning of every cell in the body. Precision-sensing of amino acids, both in amount and type, is critical for protein structure, along with other important uses of amino acids such as fuel for the brain and other organs.*
Furthermore, the impairment in glucose sensing, alongside disruptions in storage and mobilization, is one of the contributing factors negatively influencing blood sugar metabolism and other physiological challenges that are often associated with age. This impairment is thought to be due to imbalanced intracellular calcium ion levels, mitochondrial dysfunction, reactive oxygen species, and stress on the endoplasmic reticulum (ER).
ER stress may also be involved in cholesterol sensing impairments. Cholesterol is fundamental to cell membrane synthesis, hormones critical for our daily activities, and other important aspects of our optimal functioning. Cholesterol sensing–either too high or too low–likely happens in the ER and involves the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase. Imbalances in cholesterol levels have downstream implications in endothelial wellness, cardiovascular function, and much more.
Many nutrients are stored in the body for potential times of scarcity–glucose is stored as glycogen, lipids can be stored as droplets, and amino acids can be stored in proteins and organelles. In order to mobilize those stores, autophagy may occur. On this micro level, autophagy helps to control the process of recycling within the cell. This process is highly regulated by the nutrient signaling process and can have downstream effects during the aging process.
So how does aging play a role?
Animal studies have explored the potential effects of improvements in nutrient sensing during the aging process. In one murine study, improvements in glucose response and longevity were reported; another study reported improvements in energy expenditure and motor fitness and memory.
Current research is still exploring the question of how to counteract deregulated nutrient sensing. An answer may lie in the support of the endoplasmic reticulum quality control pathways. Many functions of the endoplasmic reticulum are ATP-dependent and are threatened by aging and other lifestyle factors. Through the support of cellular energy production and mitochondrial integrity, we may also support endoplasmic reticulum function and optimal nutrient sensing, potentially unlocking another key to healthy aging.
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* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.