The inventors have developed several potent ROS scavengers that are effective in treating a rat model of hemorrhagic shock. To test the effects of these anti-oxidants on ageing, a mouse model was of accelerated aging was used. It was predicted that ROS scavengers, in particular those that are targeting mitochondria, would extend lifespan, improve quality of life and reduce histopathologic changes associated with aging. Indeed, systemic treatment of these progeoid mice three times per week resulted in a significant delay in the onset of osteoporosis, intervertebral disc degeneration, neurodegeneration, sarcopenia and decreased spontaneous activity (a measure of quality of life). Moreover, the physical appearance of the mice is dramatically improved. Onset of age-related symptoms were delayed up to 4 wks, corresponding to over a decade in humans. Furthermore, in vitro, these anti-oxidants significantly delay the onset of cellular senescence due to oxidative stress.

File Number: 1738 

Other Information:

Stage of Development

• Effectiveness demonstrated in an animal model

Background
Aging is characterized by the progressive erosion of functional reserve in all organ systems. This places the elderly at increased risk of numerous debilitating diseases including cardiovascular disease, dementia, bone fractures and cancer. Demographics indicate that the number of individuals >65 will double in the next 25 years. Therefore identifying strategies to prevent loss of functional reserve is essential for maintaining the health of our aging population.