Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Opportunities as Aging Countermeasures

Mitochondria produce energy in cells, but these organelles lose function with aging. Aging also decreases responsiveness to insulin. While exercise protects against these age-related declines, it is critical to identify alternative therapies for people who cannot exercise. Early evidence shows that the fats found in fish oil improve mitochondria and increase insulin sensitivity. The goal of Dr. Lanza's project is to determine how fish oils may improve mitochondrial function and insulin action in young and old mice. The research could lead to an increased understanding of protein metabolism with aging and identify several new therapeutic benefits of fish oil supplementation for older people.