Natural Enzyme Helps Mice Live Longer in Study
(Reuters Health, 5/5/05)

Dr. Peter Rabinovitch and associates at the University of Washington School of Medicine studied mice that had been genetically engineered to produce a human antioxidant enzyme called catalase, which breaks down hydrogen peroxide into hydrogen and water. Mice that generated more of this antioxidant in their mitochondria had healthier heart tissue and survived 20% longer than normal mice. Scientists speculate that, by breaking down the hydrogen peroxide, which is a precursor of free radicals, antioxidants may prevent oxidative damage and thereby counteract disease and aging. According to this theory of aging, controlling the free radicals, which the mitochondria constantly generate as a part of metabolism, may minimize the aging process and possibly increase “healthspan”, i.e. “healthy lifespan."

(Science, May 2005)