Scientists have discovered a promising new way to slow down aging at the cellular level using a special type of whey protein (Dietary MAF). A team of researchers led by Dr. Toshio Inui studied the effects of this modified whey protein on the protective caps of chromosomes, known as telomeres, in both young and older mice. Their findings, published in the journal Scientific Reports*, suggest that this protein may help maintain cellular health and slow down the natural aging process.
Telomeres are like the plastic tips on shoelaces—they protect chromosomes from damage. However, as we age, these telomeres gradually shorten, leading to cell aging and an increased risk of age-related diseases. Chromosomes, which carry genetic information in cells, rely on telomeres to remain stable and functional. The researchers compared the effects of the modified whey protein with regular whey protein to see if it had a greater impact on telomere length. They found that mice consuming the modified whey protein for several weeks showed a noticeable increase in telomere length. “We found that the modified whey protein, but not regular whey protein, significantly lengthened telomeres and boosted the activity of key genes responsible for maintaining them,” Dr. Inui explained. The protein also increased the production of molecules needed for telomere repair and maintenance, which helps prevent DNA damage and slows down cellular aging.
In young mice, telomere length increased by more than half after several weeks of consuming the modified whey protein, while regular whey protein had only a minor effect. The most striking results, however, were observed in older mice, which naturally had shorter telomeres. After consuming the modified whey protein, these mice regained telomere length comparable to that of young mice. The researchers also noted that the production of molecules essential for telomere maintenance in older mice improved significantly, bringing them to levels similar to those seen in younger mice.
Dr. Inui’s team’s findings suggest that the modified whey protein may help protect genetic material and slow down the aging process at the cellular level. Genetic material, which includes DNA, contains the instructions that control cell functions and overall health. “The significant telomere lengthening observed in both young and older mice highlights the potential of this whey protein as a dietary supplement for maintaining long-term cellular health,” Dr. Inui stated. Since shorter telomeres are linked to various aging-related illnesses, including heart disease and neurodegenerative disorders, which are conditions that affect the brain and nervous system, this discovery could pave the way for new strategies to promote healthier aging.
Beyond aging, shortened telomeres have also been linked to mental health issues and chronic stress. Studies show that prolonged stress can accelerate telomere shortening, which may contribute to mood disorders and other psychological conditions. Because of its potential to preserve telomere length, this modified whey protein may have benefits for mental well-being as well. Mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety, are linked to imbalances in brain chemistry and prolonged stress, which can impact telomere health. While these results are encouraging, further research is needed to understand exactly how the protein works and whether similar effects could be seen in humans.
The discovery of this whey protein’s ability to extend telomeres marks an important step in nutritional science. Nutritional science focuses on how diet and nutrients affect overall health and aging. As researchers continue to explore its applications, its potential role in promoting longevity and protecting against age-related decline remains a fascinating area for future studies.
Journal Reference
Inui T., Kawamura N., Yamamura M., Kubo K., Yamakage H., Satoh-Asahara N., Ogawa Y., & Katsuura G. “Oral intake of degalactosylated whey protein increases peripheral blood telomere length in young and aged mice.” Scientific Reports, 2024. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-81597-3
About the Author
Dr. Toshio Inui is the CEO of the Saisei Mirai Clinics Group and a distinguished Medical Doctor with a PhD. He graduated from Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine in 1978. Following his graduation, he gained experience as a physician in the internal medicine department of a general hospital. At the age of 33, he founded Inui Clinic, specializing in the treatment of internal diseases. A pivotal moment in his career came after the loss of his father to cancer, which led Dr. Inui to reevaluate the limitations of traditional cancer therapies, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. This personal experience drove him to focus on immunotherapy as an alternative approach to cancer treatment. As a result, he renamed his clinic to Inui Cancer Immunotherapy Clinic and dedicated himself to advancing immunotherapy research and cancer treatment.
Today, his clinic is engaged in collaborative efforts with universities and medical institutions both within Japan and internationally, pioneering research and development in immunotherapies such as GcMAF, autologous cancer vaccines, hyper T/NK cell therapy, Sonodynamic therapy (SDT), and P53 and PTEN gene therapy.
Key Career Highlights:
⚫ 1978: Graduated from Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine
⚫ 1987: Founded Inui Cancer Immunotherapy Clinic in Osaka
⚫ 2009: Established Saisei Mirai Medical Corporation
⚫ 2010: Opened Saisei Mirai Clinics in Osaka, Kobe, and Tokyo
⚫ 2013: Appointed as a Visiting Professor at Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Ritsumeikan University (2018) and Kagoshima University (2020)
⚫ 2016: Completed PhD in Engineering from Tokushima University.
⚫ 2023: Opened Saisei Serbia Clinic; Saisei Lithuania Company
