Our body consists of countless cells that are constantly active. Recent research shows that as cells age, they not only wear out, but also actively change their interior. An important part of the cell, the endoplasmic reticulum, undergoes a process in which parts that make proteins shrink, while fat-related parts are preserved.
This process is called ER-phagy and plays a role in how long we live and how healthily we age. Because these changes take place early in the ageing process, they could contribute to the development of diseases later in life. On the other hand, they also offer starting points for new ways to combat premature signs of ageing.
The endoplasmic reticulum helps cells to make and process proteins, which is essential for bodily functions. By shifting the balance in the cell structure, how cells function and how they respond to stress changes. This can influence the maintenance of our health at a later age.
Understanding these cellular changes is valuable for developing interventions that can support healthy ageing. Research into ER-phagy can contribute to techniques to delay ageing and prevent diseases.
These discoveries underline the importance of cellular processes for our health as we age.
Source: Original article
