For the first time, scientists at Albert Einstein College of Medicine have been able to prevent the age-related decline of the liver--a process that could have significant implications for preventing a host of age-related ailments like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. The researchers were able to prevent the accumulation of harmful proteins inside a liver, stopping the aging process in the organ. Their work highlights the potential of new therapies that boost protein clearance.

"Our study showed that functions can be maintained in older animals so long as damaged proteins continue to be efficiently removed-- strongly supporting the idea that protein buildup in cells plays an important role in aging itself," said Dr. Ana Maria Cuervo. "Even more important, these results show that it's possible to correct this protein 'logjam' that occurs in our cells as we get older, thereby perhaps helping us to enjoy healthier lives well into old age."

- read the AFP article [1]

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