Eating less slowed the buildup of DNA mistakes linked to aging — at least in mice

The useful part

Our cells accumulate DNA mistakes as we age, eating less slowed that process in mice Every cell carries a molecular record of time. As DNA is copied, repaired and exposed to damage, mutations gradually accumulate — most harmless, some potentially consequential. A new Cell study found that mice eating about 30% fewer calories accumulated fewer age-related DNA mutations across several tissues than mice allowed to eat freely.

How it works

• The result offers a possible molecular clue to why calorie restriction has extended lifespan in many animal experiments.
• It does not mean people should cut a third of their calories in an attempt to protect their DNA.
• The study was conducted in mice, and severe long-term restriction can carry real risks in humans.
• Mutations are an ordinary part of getting older DNA is constantly damaged by normal metabolism, environmental exposures and simple copying errors.
• Cells have elaborate repair systems, but those systems are […] The post Eating less slowed...