Close-up of female scientist in white uniform holding microtiter plate while working in the laboratory (iStock)
A breatkthrough by British scientists could slow down or even stop the aging process, it has been revealed.
Researchers at Nottingham University have found a specific protein inside a certain part of cells which seems to be the cause of aging.
The discovery of the protein, called carbonic anhydrase, could lead to the development of new medicines to slow the effects of aging – or even halt the progression of debilitating conditions such as dementia.
During the study, tests showed higher levels of carbonic anhydrase in the brain and muscle cells of older mice.
Crucially, there was also larger amounts of it in young mice who already had some brain degeneration.