Restricting one specific essential amino acid-isoleucine-slowed aging and extended lifespan in mice by up to 33%, according to new research from the University of Wisconsin.
Isoleucine, found in eggs, dairy, soy, and meats, is essential for protein production but cannot be made by the body. In a controlled study, mice fed a low-isoleucine diet lived significantly longer, became leaner, and maintained better blood sugar control and muscle strength compared to control groups.
Male mice saw a 33% lifespan increase; females, a 7% increase. They also showed reduced frailty, less cancer, and better metabolic health-even while eating more calories overall.
Endocrinologist Dudley Lamming noted that narrowing the anti-aging effect to a single amino acid brings scientists closer to developing potential human interventions, such as an isoleucine-blocking drug.
However, the researchers caution that simply cutting protein intake is not a viable strategy. More research is needed to translate these findings into safe, effective human applications.
