⏳ At a very specific age, this organ suddenly ages and triggers the aging of all others

Our body may not experience uniform aging, but rather successive surges. A recent study identifies a pivotal period where this process appears to accelerate.

This research, published in the journal Cell, provides new insight into the dynamics of aging. By finely analyzing proteins from different human tissues, scientists have mapped biological variations over time. Their observations reveal a notable acceleration around the age of fifty, with significant disparities between organs.

A biological clock with multiple mechanisms

The research team conducted proteomic analysis of 516 tissue samples. These samples came from 76 organ donors aged 14 to 68. The study covered eight major physiological systems, including the cardiovascular and immune systems.

Scientists observed early changes from the age of 30. These changes primarily concerned the adrenal gland, which produces many hormones. This discovery supports the importance of metabolic control in aging.

A more marked transformation occurred between 45 and 55 years. This period corresponded to significant fluctuations in protein levels. The aorta, the body's main artery, showed the most significant variations.

The central role of the vascular system

The study demonstrates a significant increase in GAS6 protein in the walls of the aging aorta. This major artery thus becomes an important source of this biological messenger. The protein is then released into the bloodstream.

The vascular system ensures the diffusion of this signal throughout the body. GAS6 travels via blood flow to reach distant organs. It functions as a senescence signaling molecule.

This protein binds to specific receptors on the surface of target cells. Its interaction triggers biochemical cascades that activate cellular aging programs. It thereby spreads functional decline to initially healthy tissues.