Scientists from University of Tsukuba (Japan) turned their attention to the CtBP2 molecule while studying the biological connection between obesity and metabolism. CtBP2 acts as a sensor that responds to metabolic changes, and previous studies have shown that its activity is reduced in obese people. Interestingly, stimulation or activation of CtBP2 has been shown to improve metabolism.

Scientists from Tsukuba discovered that this molecule, previously thought to function only inside cells, is actually released into the bloodstream.

When CtBP2 is active and present in the blood, it helps maintain healthy metabolism throughout the body. However, disruption of its activity is associated with systemic aging and an increase in the number of health problems.

Health marker

After developing a method to measure CtBP2 levels in blood samples, the researchers found that they tended to decline with age. However in people from families of long-livers, the concentration of CtBP2 in the blood is consistently higher. In contrast, people with advanced diabetes complications have noticeably lower levels of CtBP2. These results suggest that measuring blood CtBP2 levels may serve as a useful biomarker for assessing both biological aging and general health.

The researchers believe their discovery, published in Nature Aging, may pave the way for new ways to monitor and support healthy aging. Using CtBP2 as an indicator, doctors and scientists may one day be able to assess the extent of human aging and develop personalized strategies for maintaining health.

Future studies are also planned to examine how to safely increase the secretion of CtBP2 into the bloodstream to slow age-related decline and improve overall well-being.