Summary
In this episode of The Peter Atia Drive, Peter Atia interviews NIR Barzilai, the founding director of the Institute for Aging Research at Albert Einstein. The conversation covers various topics related to aging, including insulin resistance, IGF and growth hormone, caloric restriction, and nad and nicotinamide ride beside. The context also touches on the Women's Health Initiative study and the role of estrogen in aging.
The context discusses the history of metformin, a drug used to treat Type 2 diabetes, and its mechanism of action. Metformin was discovered from a plant and is considered safer than its cousin drug, which was associated with lactic acidosis. Insulin resistance, which is associated with Type 2 diabetes, is a complicated phenomenon that involves the liver, muscle, and fat cells. Metformin is known to participate in the AMPK-driven insulin-independent modality of glucose disposal.
The context discusses genetic manipulation and dietary changes that can extend lifespan significantly. Insulin resistance is a protective mechanism and a stress response, and animals with insulin resistance tend to live longer. However, there are animals with insulin sensitivity that also live longer. The speaker emphasizes the challenges in understanding metabolism and the need for further research.
The discussion revolves around a study done in the UK that showed a 17% reduction in mortality for people with diabetes who were taking Metformin. The TAME study is discussed, which aims to prove that aging can be targeted, and Metformin can be used as an indication for aging.
The study is focused on the effects of metformin on aging in individuals aged 65 years and over. The study will be randomized, with one group receiving a placebo and the other receiving either 2 grams or 1500 mg of metformin.
The context discusses genetic differences and their impact on the aging process. The FOXO gene is identified as a prevalent genetic difference in centenarians around the world. The context also delves into the protective effects of the CTP mutation and its impact on the concentration of LP little a in centenarians.
Overall, the discussion highlights the complexities and nuances involved in understanding and treating various health conditions. The speaker also discusses the practical benefits of metformin and expressing concern about the increasing popularity of the drug among non-diabetic individuals.
