Taurine is often associated with energy drinks and pre-workout supplements, although ironically, it is not a stimulant and may have the opposite effect. While taurine is not considered an essential nutrient for adults, as our bodies can produce it from other amino acids, recent evidence suggests that it offers numerous health benefits. These include improved blood sugar regulation, reduced oxidative stress, and lower blood pressure.
One intriguing aspect of taurine is its potential to vary in production between individuals. Furthermore, studies indicate that taurine levels may decline with age. This brings us to the focus of this week's episode of humanOS Radio.
We are delighted to have Vijay Yadav, an Assistant Professor at Columbia University's Department of Genetics and Development, as our guest. He is the senior author of a fascinating new study published in Science, which explores the connection between taurine and the aging process.
Yadav and his team conducted measurements of blood taurine concentrations in mice, monkeys, and humans at different ages. Their findings revealed a consistent decline in taurine levels associated with aging across all species. In fact, the reduction was significant, with elderly humans exhibiting an 80% decrease in taurine compared to younger individuals.
The crucial question posed by the authors is whether these changes are mere correlations or if they play a causal role in the aging process. In other words, do declining taurine levels contribute to physiological aging and age-related diseases, or are they simply associated with them?
If taurine reductions do indeed cause aging, restoring taurine levels to that of youth could potentially extend both lifespan and healthspan. This means not only living longer but also living better.
To begin unraveling this question, Vijay and his colleagues conducted a series of experiments. To discover their findings and delve deeper into the relationship between taurine and aging, we invite you to listen to the interview on humanOS Radio.