Urolithin A (UA) is a natural compound that induces mitophagy after oral consumption. This study looked at the biological effects of UA in C. elegans (worms) and rodents to assess the health benefits. In C. elagans, UA prolonged lifespan and normal activity during aging. In rodents, UA improved exercise capacity in models of age-related muscle decline. These findings demonstrate the positive effects of UA and its potential role in strategies to improve mitochondrial function and muscle health.
Our research
October 17, 2022
Urolithins are postbiotic molecules generated by our gut microbiome from ellagitannins in pomegranates, berries, and nuts. Urolithin A is the most abundant Urolithin in humans.
The goal of this trial was to establish a biological effect of Urolithin A and investigate the health benefits in worms and rodents. Urolithin A was able to induce mitophagy in C. elegans, mammalian cells, and rodents.
Urolithin A administration increased the lifespan of C. elegans by up to 45.4% in a dose-dependent manner. Higher doses correspond to a longer lifespan. The study also demonstrated improvements in activity levels in C. elegans.
Urolithin A administration in mice resulted in a 57% increase in the level of spontaneous exercise and a 9% increase in grip strength. Wistar rats also showed improvements in exercise performance with a 65% increase in running capacity compared with placebo.
The results demonstrate the health benefits of UA and its potential application for humans with age-related chronic conditions.
Authors
Dongryeol Ryu, Laurent Mouchiroud,Pénélope A Andreux, Elena Katsyuba,Norman Moullan, Amandine A Nicolet-dit-Félix, Evan G Williams, Pooja Jha, Giuseppe Lo Sasso, Damien Huzard, Patrick Aebischer, Carmen Sandi, Chris Rinsch & Johan Auwerx