Senolytics – anti aging chemicals from plants

A conversation with ChatGPT4, after I saw an ad on Facebook claiming you could live to 180 by popping two pills a day for the rest of your long life (😀, the implication).

Q: Explain what is a senolytic and what is the known evidence for it

A: Senolytics are a class of small molecules, peptides, or natural compounds that can selectively induce the death of senescent cells, which are aging or damaged cells that have stopped dividing. These compounds have been of interest in anti-aging and rejuvenation research due to their potential to clear out senescent cells and promote tissue regeneration. Known evidence for senolytics includes their ability to improve age-related tissue dysfunction, reduce inflammation, and extend healthy lifespan in animal studies. Additionally, senolytics have shown promise in alleviating age-related diseases such as osteoporosis, neurodegenerative disorders, and cardiovascular diseases by targeting senescent cells.

Q: Give specific examples of it

A: Two well-known examples of senolytics are dasatinib and quercetin. Dasatinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor that has been found to selectively induce cell death in senescent cells. Quercetin, on the other hand, is a natural flavonoid compound found in various fruits and vegetables that has also demonstrated senolytic properties. When used in combination, dasatinib and quercetin have shown synergistic effects in targeting and eliminating senescent cells in preclinical studies. These compounds have been studied for their potential in alleviating age-related diseases and promoting healthy aging in various animal models.

Q: What are the potential side effects of using dasatinib and quercetin as senolytics?

A: The use of dasatinib and quercetin as senolytics may be associated with potential side effects. Dasatinib, as a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, is a prescription medication primarily used to treat certain types of leukemia, and it is known to have a range of potential side effects. Common side effects of dasatinib include fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, headache, and muscle pain. More serious side effects may include low blood cell counts, bleeding, and fluid retention.

Quercetin, as a natural compound found in foods, is generally considered safe when consumed as part of a balanced diet. However, when taken in high doses as a supplement or for therapeutic purposes, quercetin may cause side effects such as headache, tingling of the arms and legs, and kidney damage in rare cases. It may also interact with certain medications and affect their metabolism in the body.

When used in combination as senolytics, dasatinib and quercetin may have additive or synergistic effects on the body, potentially impacting the risk and severity of side effects. It’s important for individuals considering the use of these compounds as senolytics to consult with a healthcare professional to assess the potential risks and benefits, especially if they have preexisting medical conditions or are taking other medications.

Q: Do senolytics from plant sources survive cooking and get absorbed

A: Senolytics from plant sources, such as quercetin and other flavonoids, can be affected by cooking and food preparation methods. The impact of cooking on the availability and absorption of senolytic compounds depends on factors such as temperature, cooking time, and the type of food being prepared.

In general, some plant-derived senolytics may be heat-stable and survive cooking to a certain extent, while others may be sensitive to heat and degrade during cooking. For example, quercetin, which is found in foods like onions, apples, and berries, can be partially degraded by heat, especially at higher temperatures and with prolonged cooking times. However, cooking methods such as steaming or microwaving may help preserve more of the quercetin content compared to boiling or frying.

The absorption of senolytics from plant sources after cooking can also be influenced by the food matrix and the presence of other nutrients. Compounds like quercetin may be bound to dietary fibers or interact with other components in the food, affecting their bioavailability. Additionally, some senolytics may be more readily absorbed in the presence of certain nutrients or dietary fats, which can also be impacted by cooking methods.

Overall, while cooking can affect the availability and absorption of senolytics from plant sources, incorporating a diverse range of fruits, vegetables, and herbs into a balanced diet can still provide a variety of bioactive compounds with potential senolytic properties.

My conclusion:

Eat a wide variety of vegetables and fruits and cook them to the least extent and focus on flavor and enjoy food.