AI revolutionises dietary supplements for longevity

Longevity: artificial intelligence conquering geroprotection

Diagnostic assistance, predictive medicine, robotic surgery, development of vaccines and medicines...

In just a few decades, artificial intelligence (AI) has completely transformed the field of health.

Research into food supplements is no exception: it too is harnessing the power of ‘intelligent systems’ to isolate promising new compounds and validate their efficacy.

Imagine for a moment that AI could increase our longevity by identifying ‘geroprotective’ molecules — in other words, molecules capable of slowing down the ageing process and helping us live better for longer (1).

These molecules would, among other things, protect healthy tissues from oxidative stress and inflammation, or trigger genetic repair processes by turning on carefully selected cellular switches, known as signalling pathways.

What would once have been science fiction is now becoming reality with the advent of high-speed computer programmes that exploit biomedical artificial intelligence algorithms.

These include in silico screening (the virtual testing of molecules using AI), machine learning (the analysis of data to predict effects) and signalling pathway modelling (the simulation of cellular interactions).

While it has traditionally taken several decades to reach verdicts on possible benefits in terms of human longevity, this approach already claims to accelerate research into geroprotection by more rapidly filtering the substances likely to activate anti-ageing pathways and improving our understanding of the underlying biological processes.

In particular, these innovative technologies have made it possible to expand the class of senolytic compounds, which are responsible for detecting and eliminating senescent cells — 'stale' cells that accumulate in tissues with age, releasing pro-inflammatory messengers and precipitating the onset of age-related diseases (2).

Quercetin, a powerful flavonoid found in high concentrations in onions and capable of crossing the blood–brain barrier, is one of the most widely studied potential senolytics in neuroprotection (3).

Fisetin also deserves a mention, as it has been associated with a reduction in senescence markers in aged mouse models, particularly in adipose tissue (4).

Anti-ageing food supplements: new substances 'validated' by AI

While artificial intelligence will increasingly assist researchers in the design of supplements, it has already validated the relevance of various substances used in the field of geroprotection.

NAC: the precursor of glutathione

N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is a synthetic derivative of cysteine, a non-essential amino acid.

It acts as a precursor to glutathione, our main endogenous antioxidant (manufactured by our bodies), and stimulates its regeneration in its reduced, biologically active form.

Researchers suspect that NAC may modulate multiple signalling pathways involved in cell growth and arrest, programmed cell death (apoptosis) and the inflammatory response (6).

More specifically, a recent study suggests that NAC protects cells by triggering intracellular production of hydrogen biosulphide, which is correlated with increased longevity and resistance to stress in yeast, worms, flies and mice (and is found in our optimally dosed N-Acetyl Cysteine formula) (7-8).

Myricetin: a plant geroprotector

Also known as myricetol, myricetin is an organic compound from the flavonol family concentrated in various plants, including grapes, nuts and berries.

In biogerontology, this molecule is thought to interfere with the MAPK pathway, which is involved in the apoptosis of damaged cells.

It is also thought to play a role in autophagy, a cellular process that optimises cell function by recycling waste from the cytoplasm (9).

Gamma-tocotrienols: a superior form of vitamin E in combatting oxidative stress

Vitamin E helps to protect cells against oxidative stress.

In our bodies, it is concentrated in 2 main forms (of the 8 that exist): alpha-tocopherols and gamma-tocotrienols.

However, studies seem to confirm that gamma-tocotrienols have a clear advantage over alpha-tocotrienols when it comes to levels of oxidation and inflammation.

Gamma-tocotrienols are said to be able to trap reactive nitrogen species, offer superior protection of mitochondrial function and selectively inhibit certain inflammatory messengers (such as leukotrienes, prostaglandins, etc.) (10).

In supplementation, they should ideally not be combined with tocopherols, which limit their absorption (which is why Annatto Tocotrienols relies exclusively on a combination of gamma and delta tocotrienols).

EGCG: the longevity secret of green tea

Why do scientists associate regular consumption of green tea with longer life expectancy?

The explanation lies in epigallocatechin gallate, or EGCG.

Known for its positive effects on cardiovascular health, blood sugar levels and body weight management, this remarkable polyphenol is also thought to help reduce cell ageing induced by oxidative damage (11-13).

In particular, it is thought to interact with several cell surface receptors (67LR, TLR4, etc.) which mediate the signalling pathways involved in the inflammatory response, sirtuin activation, angiogenesis, cell proliferation and survival (naturally extracted from green tea, EGCG uses a high-dose formula of 455 mg for 2 capsules a day to maximise its potential) (14).

Food supplements and AI could have a bright future together

What's next for food supplements?

With the rapid development of AI, a whole new era for food supplements may be just around the corner.

While the exact form this will take remains to be seen, possibilities include:

• tailor-made formulations adapted to individual biomarkers, genetic profiles and lifestyles;
• dosages adjusted according to feedback from health monitoring apps; and
• ingredient synergies optimised by machine learning to enhance bioavailability and effectiveness.

Only time will tell!