Kirin Holdings and the University of Tokyo, Japan, have discovered that nutrient absorption decreases in aging intestinal epithelial cells. They say this finding is a global first, which may potentially lead to functional ingredient innovations to subdue intestinal aging.
The researchers used a model of an artificial intestinal organoid derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS) to identify epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a key mechanism of the aging process.
The researchers warn that reduced nutrient absorption can lead to systemic health issues such as frailty.
“The impact of aging on nutrient absorption may vary depending on the type of nutrient. Moving forward, it will be important not only to increase intake but also to determine the optimal composition…