Why is there an age-associated metabolic imbalance?
One credible theory is that errors accumulate in the cellular membranes where many of the metabolic signaling events occur. A cellular membrane clogged with oxidized proteins and lipids produces age-associated structures known as lipofuscin. Lipofuscin in turn may interfere with the mobility of the machinery involved in the numerous membrane-associated signaling events required for regulation of the phase II enzyme system. Therefore, agents that protect membranes from toxic insults and accumulation of lipofuscin may help attenuate the age-associated metabolic imbalance in phase II regulation. Protection of this structure, the membrane, may prove to be a primary factor in promoting health and longevity. Damage to other cellular components may be secondary to the interruption of membrane structure.
