'Stress' protein could halt aging process, say scientists

May 24, 2010

HSP10 (Heat Shock Protein), helps monitor and organise protein interactions in

the body, and responds to environmental stresses, such as exercise and

infection, by increasing its production inside cells. Researchers at Liverpool,

in collaboration with colleagues at the University of California, found that

excessive amounts of HSP10 inside mitochondria – 'organs' that act as energy

generators in cells – can halt the body's ageing process by preserving muscle

strength.

HSP10 occurs naturally in all living organisms and scientists believe that study

into its functions could prove significant for the design of future health care

for the elderly, who are particularly susceptible to muscle damage. Researchers

examined the role HSP10 plays inside cells, to further understand how ageing

muscle tissue can recover from stress.

Professor Anne McArdle, from the University's School of Clinical Sciences, said:

" We studied the role of HSP10 inside mitochondria, as it is here that unstable

chemicals are produced which can harm parts of the cell. The damage caused by

this is thought to play an important part in the ageing process, in which

skeletal muscle becomes smaller and weaker and more susceptible to stress

damage.

" In response to these stresses HSP10 increases its levels and helps cells resist

damage and recover more effectively. Our research is the first to demonstrate

that age-related loss of skeletal muscle mass is not inevitable and this could

have considerable implications for the future health care of the elderly.

Between the ages of 50 and 70 we lose approximately 25-30% of our muscle. Falls

– a major cause of injury and death in people over the age of 65 – are often the

direct result of loss of mobility and weakened skeletal muscle.

" We now need to look at how we might artificially increase production of HSP10

in the body, specifically in relation to ageing muscle, to see if the protein

could be used as a therapeutic measure. In time, clinical trials must take place

to establish what benefits HSP10 can have on human quality of life, such as

preservation of muscle strength. "

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