Scientists from Osaka University have discovered a critical protein that can reverse cellular aging. Suppression of the protein named AP2A1 reverses aging in cells, while an increase accelerates aging.

Researchers from Osaka University found that the subunit of the protein called AP2A1 could play a crucial role in the unique structural organization of aged cells. It was noted that suppression of AP2A1 reverses aging in cells, while an increase accelerates aging. The study’s lead author, Pirawan Chantachotikul, said, “We do not yet understand how aged cells maintain their large sizes. An interesting clue is that stress fibers in aged cells are much thicker compared to young cells. This indicates that proteins in these fibers help support the large sizes of cells.” Scientists investigated the possibility by studying AP2A1 (Adaptor Protein Complex 2, Alpha 1 Subunit). AP2A1 is a protein that is significantly increased in stress fibers, especially in aged fibroblasts and epithelial cells. Scientists examined aging-like behavior by eliminating AP2A1 expression in aged cells and overexpressing it in young cells.

“RESULTS ARE INTERESTING” Senior author Shinji Deguchi stated, “The results were very interesting. Suppression of AP2A1 in aged cells promotes cellular rejuvenation by reversing aging, while overexpression of AP2A1 in young cells accelerates aging.” Researchers also found that AP2A1 is closely associated with integrin β1, a protein that helps cells adhere to the collagen matrix around them, and both proteins move along stress fibers inside cells. It was explained that integrin β1 strengthens cell-substrate adhesions in fibroblasts, which could explain the thickened or elevated structures of aged cells. Chantachotikul stated, “Our findings demonstrate that aged cells maintain their large sizes through the movement of AP2A1 and integrin β1 along expanded stress fibers, enhancing adhesion to the extracellular matrix.” The research team also mentioned that this study could provide a new treatment target for age-related diseases.