There was a feeling of optimism about the tremendous progress in our understanding of the aging process, and the emerging knowledge of how to slow it down. Soon we may have the means to effectively extend our life expectancy, and ultimately even the maximal life span of our species. Most of our free radical production comes from the energy-producing activities in the cell organelles known as mitochondria. The rate of mitochondrial damage could be a key factor in determining the rate of aging.
Calorie restriction translates into lower levels of free radical production in the mitochondria.
But other physiological phenomena associated with calorie restriction are also likely to play a role in promoting longevity. Dr. Mark Lane of the National Institute on Aging in Baltimore presented a summary of the effects of calorie restriction. Calorie restriction is known to reduce serum glucose and insulin levels. Both of these typically rise with age and age-related increased obesity. High glucose levels lead to the formation of harmful glycation products as glucose cross-links with body proteins such as collagen.