Taurine is not a universal indicator of aging, says new study

Recent studies on humans, monkeys and mice show that taurine levels in the blood do not systematically decline with age. Scientists emphasize that the level of this amino acid depends more on individual characteristics, diet and species than on the aging process itself. This means that taurine is not a reliable biomarker of aging, and its supplementation may only work in specific situations.

Taurine – what is this substance?

Taurine is one of the most abundant amino acids in animals. It has many important biological functions and has long attracted the attention of scientists for its possible health benefits. In recent years, research has emerged suggesting that taurine levels in the body decline with age, and that supplementation may help delay the aging process.

For taurine to be considered a reliable biomarker of aging, its levels would have to change systematically with age in different populations and over time. However, studies to date, mostly based on cross-sectional data, have yielded conflicting results.

Study on humans, monkeys and mice

Maria Fernandez and her team conducted a comprehensive new study using both cross-sectional and longitudinal data from three large groups of humans, as well as monkeys and mice. They found that taurine levels in healthy individuals tended to remain stable or even increase with age. Individual factors, such as diet, gender, and species, were more important than age alone.

The researchers also noted that the relationship between taurine and health indicators, such as muscle strength and body mass, varies depending on species and context. Therefore, "the effectiveness of taurine supplementation in delaying aging or treating age-related diseases may depend on the specific situation," emphasizes Maria Fernandez.

Based on their results, the researchers concluded that taurine does not meet the criteria for a solid biomarker of aging and cannot be considered a universal anti-aging drug. Its role in health and aging is more complex and requires further study.