A new biological pathway to healthy ageing
New research suggests the Mediterranean diet may influence ageing at a cellular level. A study led by researchers at the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology found that this diet could activate tiny proteins inside mitochondria, called humanin and SHMOOSE, which help cells resist damage and slow the ageingprocess.
Mitochondria are known as the powerhouses of cells, but they also release chemical signals that affect metabolism, inflammation, stress responses, and ageing. The study revealed that older adults who closely followed the Mediterranean diet had higher blood levels of humanin and SHMOOSE, both of which are linked to protection against cardiovascular disease and neurodegeneration.
“These microproteins may act as molecular messengers that translate what we eat into how our cells function and age. It’s a new biological pathway that helps explain why the Mediterranean diet is so powerful,” said lead author Prof. Roberto Vicinanza.
The role of key foods
The study suggests that specific components of the Mediterranean diet contribute uniquely to mitochondrial health. Higher consumption of olive oil, fish, and legumes was associated with increased levels of humanin. Olive oil and a lower intake of refined carbohydrates were linked to higher levels of SHMOOSE.
Refined carbohydrates, such as white bread and pastries, are digested quickly and can cause sharp spikes in blood sugar. In contrast, the Mediterranean diet’s focus on whole, unprocessed foods may help stabilise blood sugar and reduce oxidative stress.
Mitochondrial microproteins: tiny but mighty
Humanin and SHMOOSE are produced from short sections of the mitochondrial genome. Humanin, first identified in 2003, has been linked to improved insulin sensitivity, cardiovascular protection, and cognitive function preservation. SHMOOSE is associated with brain health, with its normal form appearing to protect neurons from damage related to amyloid, a protein linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
These peptides are emerging as key regulators of ageing biology, connecting mitochondrial function to diseases like Alzheimer’s and heart disease, and potentially to nutrition.
A potential new mechanism for heart protection
The researchers uncovered a possible connection between humanin and Nox2, an enzyme involved in producing reactive oxygen species. Higher humanin levels were associated with lower Nox2 activity, suggesting that humanin may help limit oxidative damage and provide additional protection for the heart and blood vessels.
This dual mechanism of reducing oxidative stress while increasing protective mitochondrial microproteins could represent a new way the Mediterranean diet safeguards cardiovascular health.
The takeaway: eat for your cells
While the study’s findings are preliminary, they reinforce the Mediterranean diet’s reputation as one of the healthiest eating patterns in the world. By focusing on whole foods, healthy fats, and minimal processing, this diet may not only protect your heart and brain but also influence the biological processes that govern ageing. For now, the message is clear: what you eat doesn’t just fill your stomach – it shapes your cells.