Plant Molecules Could Hold Key to Aging
 (NY, Health - AFP, 8/25/03)

According to David Sinclair of Harvard Medical School, and colleagues, plant molecules may be able to slow aging. The Harvard team plans to test 17 plant-based chemicals, including resveratrol (a component of red wine), to determine whether these agents can block cellular mutation and thereby extend the life span of mice. Previous experiments have shown that plant cells use substances, such as resveratrol, to protect themselves against mild stress, like that produced by insufficient water. The scientists speculate that the plant agents may regulate key proteins that repair DNA damage and may inhibit the natural process of cell death.