A Review of Nutrients to Extend Healthspan and Avoid Cancer by Reducing the Amount of Protein Misfolding, Free Radicals, and Calcification

Abstract

Two major causes of human aging include protein misfolding and free radicals. Protein misfolding occurs when proteins which are synthesized by cells do not have the proper amino acid sequence or do not achieve the correct three-dimensional configuration to function properly. Peer-reviewed scientific literature explains how these processes contribute to many age-associated diseases. A few examples include cancer, heart disease, dementias including Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases, and arthritis. This article reviews how protein misfolding can be slowed and even reversed by appropriate nutrition, potentially slowing and reversing these diseases. One cause of misfolding is mRNA translation occurring too rapidly for proper chaperone binding or protein folding. A second cause is deficiency of amino acids so improper tRNA binding occurs. A third cause is free radicals. They cause mutations promoting misfolding and cancer, and oxidize lipoproteins causing plaque in circulation promoting heart disease and stroke. Nutrients with proven actions will contribute to longer healthspans for our aging population. Healthspan is the number of healthy years before chronic or terminal diseases substantially impair the quality of life. This can be done especially by slowing and reversing these three causes of PM. Niacin, quercetin, EGCG, alpha-lipoic acid, N-acetyl-carnitine, tyrosine and cysteine address protein misfolding. Vitamin C and glutathione trap free radicals. Vitamin K amplifies free radical cancer killing by vitamin C and activates decalcification enzymes which remove calcium deposits in the circulatory system and strengthen bones. Apigenin activates the pathway of caloric restriction and induces cancer cell apoptosis. This article provides citations and explanations of the progress showing new ways to maintain health as we age. For convenience and cost savings, many of these ingredients can be consumed in supplement form, taken twice a day to maintain water-soluble nutrient levels.