Research

Dietary restriction and the aging brain

Understandingthe biology of aging and its associated challenges is increasingly critical, particularly in light of a rapidly aging population. Age-related diseases, especially neurodegenerative disorders, place a substantial burden on individuals and society. Notably, research into these conditions has also yielded important insights into the aging process itself. Among various interventions studied, dietary restriction (DR) has consistently emerged as a powerful strategy to extend healthy lifespan across a wide range of species, from yeast and flies to mammals. Although the mechanisms by which DR influences brain function remain under investigation, accumulating evidence points to its potential neuroprotective effects. Epidemiological studies have linked DR to a reduced risk of developing Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease, while animal studies have shown that DR can mitigate cognitive deficits in Alzheimer's models and improve toxin-induced motor and memory impairments. These findings underscore the promise of targeting DR-associated pathways for the treatment of age-related neurological disorders. In our laboratory, we are conducting a comprehensive investigation into the effects of DR on brain aging. By elucidating the molecular mechanisms through which DR modulates cognitive function, we aim to develop strategies that protect neurons from damage and preserve mental acuity. This research may pave the way for novel therapeutic approaches to promote healthy brain aging and counteract cognitive decline.

Development of anti-aging interventions

We conducted high-throughput gene expression and metabolomic profiling to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the lifespan-extending effects of dietary restriction (DR). This integrated approach led to the identification of several novel longevity-associated genes and metabolites that represent promising targets for the development of DR mimetics. By modulating these targets, we aim to replicate the beneficial effects of DR without requiring strict dietary regimens, thereby offering alternative strategies to promote healthy aging. In parallel, we screened natural products, particularly traditional Chinese herbs, to identify compounds with potential anti-aging properties. This screening yielded several candidate molecules capable of mitigating aging-related processes and potentially treating age-associated diseases. Our overarching goal is to develop interventions that not only extend lifespan but also enhance healthspan, ultimately improving the overall quality of life in aging populations.

飲食限制與老化的大腦

由於人口結構老化以及高齡社會所造成的負擔，老化的議題儼然成為人類現今生活上所面臨的一大挑戰。近來許多著重於老化及疾病的相關研究讓我們對於衰老現象有著些許的了解，而其中飲食限制已經在各種生物實驗結果中證實具有有效延長壽命的效果。雖然對飲食限制與大腦相關的研究才剛起步，在臨床研究以及動物實驗上已發現可降低巴金森氏症及阿茲海默症的發生，且可有效減緩神經毒素所造成的傷害，這些結果顯示出飲食限制對於生物個體及細胞所引起的分子機制是未來抗老化研究的重要標的。本實驗室對飲食限制於大腦老化過程中的影響將作系統性的分析，而瞭解飲食限制調控認知功能的分子機轉將有利於保護神經損傷並維持心智健康。

抗衰老藥物之研究開發

我們透過高通量基因表現與代謝體分析，對於飲食限制延緩老化的分子機轉已有初步掌握，並進一步發現多種新穎的長壽基因與小分子化合物，這些標的具高度研究潛力，亦可作為飲食限制擬藥的開發基礎。此外，我們亦利用具巴金森氏症、阿茲海默症與亨丁頓舞蹈症特徵的模式生物進行試驗，篩選出多種具抗老化潛力的天然物與中草藥。這些研究成果可望促進相關藥物的開發，進而推動健康長壽的實現。