Aging Gracefully Part. 3: The Potential of Rapamycin in Extending Your Aging Pet's Lifespan!4/24/2024 Introduction: Aging Process in PetsThis is another episode of the Aging Gracefully series. I've been learning so much from the relatively new concept: Anti-aging. I hope you've been enjoying it too. As pet owners, we all want our furry friends to live long, healthy, and happy lives. One of the struggles I have in my career, veterinary medicine, is that it has become "normal" to have cancers in aging pets, and many veterinarians don't expect animals, especially dogs, to live longer. I have worked with several vets who expect their own pets to die around 9 years old. Isn't it sad? My Newfoundland mix lived until 14 years old. Why do you think it's great if your Golden or Pointer lives up to only 9 years old? By the way, have you ever wondered why we and our pets age? What is aging? Is aging a disease? I think we can agree that aging is a natural process that occurs in all living beings. As we and our pets get older, our and their bodies undergo various changes that can affect overall health and well-being. One of the key factors in the aging process is the gradual decline in the body's ability to repair and regenerate cells. This decline can lead to a decrease in organ function, weakened immune systems, and an increased susceptibility to diseases. Instead of focusing on aging itself, I believe we should focus on how to help our and their bodies regain normal function. Anyway, aging definitely increases the body's dysfunctionality. So, let's dive into another finding of anti-aging. Common Health Issues in Older Dogs and CatsAs our pets grow older, they may begin to exhibit specific signs that suggest the passage of time. In dogs, common signs include gray hair, decreased energy levels, difficulty in getting up or moving around, weight gain or loss, changes in appetite, and a decline in hearing and vision. Cats, on the other hand, may exhibit similar signs such as reduced activity, weight changes, changes in litter box habits, dental problems, and an increased need for grooming. It's important to note that these signs may vary from one pet to another, and some pets may age more gracefully than others. However, if you notice any significant changes in your pet's behavior or health, it's always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian. The Potential of Rapamycin in Extending Your Pet's LifespanNow, let's talk about rapamycin - a drug that has shown immense potential in extending the lifespan of our aging pets. Originally developed as an immunosuppressant for humans, rapamycin has been the subject of extensive research in recent years due to its remarkable anti-aging properties. Rapamycin works by inhibiting a protein called mTOR, which is responsible for regulating cell growth and metabolism. By inhibiting mTOR, rapamycin slows down the aging process and promotes cellular repair and regeneration. This can lead to improved organ function, enhanced immune system response, and a longer, healthier life for our pets. How Rapamycin Works to Slow Down Aging in PetsTo understand how rapamycin works its magic, we need to delve a bit deeper into the science behind it. As our pets age, the activity of mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) increases, leading to an imbalance in cellular processes. This imbalance can result in the accumulation of damaged cells and proteins, which ultimately contribute to the aging process. Rapamycin steps in by inhibiting mTOR, restoring the balance in cellular processes. This allows cells to effectively clear out damaged components and repair themselves, promoting overall health and longevity. By slowing down the aging process, rapamycin can potentially extend the lifespan of our aging pets and improve their quality of life. Research Studies on the Effects of Rapamycin in Animal StudiesNumerous animal studies have been conducted to evaluate the effects of rapamycin on aging in animals. One such study published in 2021 showed that rapamycin treatment in mice resulted in an increased lifespan of up to 25%. The mice also showed improved cardiac function and a reduced incidence of age-related diseases. Another study conducted on dogs by the University of Washington demonstrated similar promising results. The dogs treated with rapamycin showed improved cardiac function compared to the control groups. While these studies are certainly promising, it's important to note that rapamycin is currently only approved for human use and further research is needed to determine the optimal dosage and potential side effects in pets. Potential Side Effects and Precautions of Using RapamycinAs with any medication, there are potential side effects and precautions to consider when using rapamycin for your aging pet. Some common side effects reported in human studies include gastrointestinal issues, increased risk of infections, changes in blood sugar levels, and changes in cholesterol levels. It's crucial to work closely with your veterinarian if you're considering rapamycin for your pet. They can determine the appropriate dosage and monitor your pet for any adverse effects. It's also important to note that rapamycin should never be administered without the supervision of a veterinarian, as improper use can lead to serious health complications. Natural food that can Inhibit mTOR like RapamycinWhile rapamycin shows great potential in extending the lifespan of our aging pets, it's not the only option available. There are natural foods that can inhibit mTOR, similar to how rapamycin does. These foods include broccoli, spinach, green tea, turmeric, apple, strawberries, cucumbers, and resveratrol-rich foods like grapes (please don't give grapes to your pets though) and blueberries. Incorporating these foods into your pet's diet may help promote cellular health and slow down the aging process. However, it's important to consult with your veterinary professionals before making any significant changes to your pet's diet, as individual dietary needs may vary. Other Lifestyle Changes to Support Your Aging Pet's HealthIn addition to considering rapamycin or incorporating mTOR-inhibiting foods, there are other lifestyle changes you can make to support your older pet's health. Regular exercise tailored to their abilities, mental stimulation through interactive toys and puzzles, and providing a comfortable and safe environment can all contribute to their overall well-being. Of course, a lot of attention and love help! It's also essential to schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian to monitor your pet's health, address any concerns, and discuss appropriate preventive care measures. ConclusionAs pet owners, we have the power to make a significant impact on the health and well-being of our aging pets. While the potential of rapamycin in extending their lifespan is an exciting discovery, it's important to approach it with caution and consult with a veterinarian. Additionally, incorporating mTOR-inhibiting foods and implementing other lifestyle changes can also contribute to their overall health and happiness. Remember, your furry friend relies on you to provide the best care possible. If you're interested in changing your aging pet's health with natural food and supplements, please schedule an appointment with me. Together, we can give the best care to your beloved companion and ensure they live gracefully for years to come! References
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6814615/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8190242/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5411365/ https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-021-04282-9.epdf?sharing_token=Or2NwrHAQGR4496myNqgDNRgN0jAjWel9jnR3ZoTv0N8TmD_nbRjd-31o8sL8H8iX54DkLtmyeaUyzrRUkq8wo44RFz_Rp0LVyQvSXKO2Sa3VQ9tSClq7ci0u619zzbtjikW1VEL10GnEQLIrP8_S7MF6d-HxYg4zXnF1dmwQ_c%3D https://newsroom.uw.edu/news-releases/dog-aging-project-resource-scientists-many-fields
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorYuki Konno MS, LVT, CVWHM(civt) Archives
November 2024
Categories |