Scientists at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have discovered that taurine, a conditionally essential amino acid, is unlikely to serve as a reliable biomarker for aging. Despite past research suggesting taurine supplements could slow aging in animals, a new study reveals that taurine levels in blood often increase or stay stable with age, rather than decline predictably.
The study, published in Science, analyzed blood samples from humans, monkeys, and mice. Researchers found that individual differences in taurine levels were often greater than age-related changes. Additionally, taurine’s link to health outcomes varied widely across species and age groups, suggesting its role in aging is not universal but instead influenced by genetics, diet, and environment.
Key Findings:
Taurine levels increased with age in humans, monkeys, and female mice (male mice showed no change).
No consistent relationship was found between taurine and muscle strength or body weight.
Motor function did not reliably correlate with taurine levels—some with low function had high taurine, others had low taurine, and some showed no link at all.
Why This Matters:
Taurine gained attention after earlier studies found it extended lifespan in worms and mice. However, no strong clinical evidence proves similar benefits in humans. This new research suggests taurine’s role in aging is complex and highly individual.
Dr. Rafael de Cabo, study co-author and chief of the NIH’s Translational Gerontology Branch, explained:
“We wanted to see if taurine could be a biomarker for aging, but our data shows it’s not a consistent predictor across species or even individuals.”
How the Study Worked:
Researchers measured taurine in:
Humans: Participants from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (ages 26-100) and two other geographically distinct groups.
Monkeys: Rhesus macaques (ages 3-32).
Mice: Ages 9-27 months.
Dr. Maria Emilia Fernandez, co-author and postdoctoral fellow, noted:
“This study is a key step in aging research—using long-term, cross-species data to clarify how taurine really changes over time.”
The Bigger Picture:
Dr. Luigi Ferrucci, scientific director at the National Institute on Aging, emphasized:
“Finding reliable aging biomarkers is crucial. It could help us develop personalized strategies to maintain health in older adults.”
The study was funded by the NIH’s National Institute on Aging.
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