Focused on aging-related tissue degeneration, Anu Wartiovaara’s research group studied mice exhibiting early signs of aging: thinning skin, graying hair, balding, osteoporosis and anemia.
Scientists provided evidence that mitochondrial mutation can adversely impact cell function. To combat the symptoms of old age, researchers used antioxidant treatments to improve stem cell function.
Wartiovaara, however, emphasises that breakthroughs with mice may not necessarily translate to humans.
“But we can say that antioxidants affect stem cell function,” she explains, adding that more research is necessary before prescribing antioxidants to slow the hands of time.
Wartiovaara says the findings are significant as they draw attention to the importance of stem cells in the study of aging-associated degeneration.