Aging By Autodigestion: Geert Schmid-Schöenbein, PhD

Scientific Concepts and Discoveries

• Autodigestion and Aging: Dr. Geert Schmid-Schöenbein proposes that aging may be influenced by autodigestion, a process where the body begins to digest itself, particularly through the action of Digestive Enzymes.
• Digestive Enzymes and Aging:
  • The research highlights a significant lack of studies linking Digestive Enzymes to aging, with only one peer-reviewed publication noted.
  • The hypothesis suggests that the presence of Digestive Enzymes in the bloodstream may correlate with aging and contribute to age-related diseases.
• Experiments on Shock Models:
  • The work originates from studies on Hemorrhagic Shock in rats, where the plasma of survivors and non-survivors was analyzed to understand the effects of Digestive Enzymes on immune cells.
  • The study found that plasma from non-survivors activated immune cells, indicating a potential link between Digestive Enzymes and systemic inflammation.
• Role of the Pancreas:
  • The Pancreas primarily produces Digestive Enzymes, which are normally kept inactive until they reach the intestine.
  • The study discusses how protective mechanisms prevent these enzymes from digesting the body’s own tissues, including protease inhibitors and mucosal barriers.
• Infiltration of Digestive Enzymes:
  • Evidence was presented showing that in aged animals, Digestive Enzymes infiltrate various organs, including the liver, lungs, heart, brain, and skin, suggesting a breakdown of protective barriers with age.
  • The experiments revealed that Digestive Enzymes can lead to the degradation of extracellular matrix proteins, indicating a potential mechanism for tissue damage in aging.
• Collagen Breakdown:
  • The presence of Digestive Enzymes correlates with the breakdown of collagen in various organs, which is a marker of aging and tissue integrity.
• Potential Biomarkers:
  • The study suggests that elevated levels of Digestive Enzymes in the bloodstream may serve as Biomarkers for aging and related diseases.
  • Future research aims to develop technologies to measure proteolytic activity in blood samples as a potential diagnostic tool.

Methodology Outline

• Experimental Setup:
  • Use of rat models to study the effects of Hemorrhagic Shock on plasma and organ tissues.
  • Homogenization of various organs to assess the production of stimulatory factors in plasma.
• Measurement Techniques:
  • Immunohistochemistry to visualize the presence of Digestive Enzymes in tissues.
  • Optical techniques to quantify enzyme activity and Collagen Breakdown.
  • Mass spectrometry to analyze peptide fragments in plasma.
• Comparative Analysis:
  • Comparison of digestive enzyme activity in young vs. aged animals.
  • Assessment of the effects of dietary changes on digestive enzyme leakage.

Researchers and Sources Featured

• Dr. Geert Schmid-Schöenbein, PhD
• Frank Delano (collaborator)
• Eric Kler (student)
• Dr. Greenberg (reference to previous work on Digestive Enzymes and aging)