Research – Israeli Study Suggests Age-Related Changes in Liver Cells May Be Reversed
Research – Scientists in Israel have reported findings that could reshape understanding of the ageing process after successfully restoring aged liver cells in mice to a state that closely resembles younger tissue. The research, conducted by a team at Bar-Ilan University, points to the possibility that certain biological effects of ageing may not be permanent and could potentially be reversed under specific conditions.
The study focused on a protein known as SIRT6, which plays an important role in maintaining cellular health. Researchers found that boosting the activity of this protein in elderly mice improved the organisation of genetic material inside liver cells and helped restore functions commonly associated with younger organs. The findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Communications.
Protein Linked to Cellular Rejuvenation
According to the research team, ageing affects the way DNA is arranged and regulated within cells. In younger organisms, genetic information remains well-organised, allowing cells to activate the correct genes when needed. As ageing progresses, this structure gradually becomes disrupted, which can interfere with normal cellular activity.
Lead researcher Professor Haim Cohen explained that the study demonstrated a significant improvement in the condition of the liver after increasing SIRT6 activity. He said the process effectively restored key cellular characteristics associated with youth, suggesting that age-related molecular damage can be repaired under certain circumstances.
Unlike previous studies that focused on slowing ageing before it occurred, this research examined whether existing age-related changes could be reversed in animals that were already old.
Findings Observed in Elderly Mice
The experiments were carried out on mice that were approximately 24 months old, an age considered comparable to people in their seventies or eighties. Researchers increased SIRT6 activity specifically within the liver and monitored the biological effects.
Within weeks, the team observed that the chromatin structure—responsible for packaging DNA and regulating gene activity—began to resemble patterns typically seen in younger animals. This shift indicated that the liver cells had regained a more youthful molecular profile.
The researchers also reported improvements in metabolic performance and a reduction in inflammation, both of which are commonly associated with healthier organ function. These changes suggested that the liver was not only appearing younger at a cellular level but was also operating more efficiently.
No Significant Safety Concerns Reported
An important aspect of the study was the absence of notable negative side effects among the treated mice. Researchers found that animals with increased SIRT6 activity generally showed better overall health indicators.
The team observed improvements in metabolism and physical activity levels, while tumour occurrence appeared closer to rates typically found in younger mice. These findings provided additional evidence that enhancing SIRT6 activity may support healthier ageing rather than creating harmful biological consequences.
Another notable outcome was the durability of the effect. Researchers said the rejuvenated state of the liver remained visible for at least three months after treatment, suggesting that the benefits may persist for an extended period.
Potential Implications for Future Medicine
The findings have generated interest because they point toward a future in which medical treatments could address aspects of ageing itself rather than focusing solely on age-related illnesses. Researchers believe the approach may eventually help older adults recover more effectively from surgery, disease, or other physical stressors that become harder to overcome with age.
An Israeli biotechnology company, SirTLab, is already working on therapies designed to activate SIRT6 in humans. The company is developing compounds intended for future clinical testing and is seeking financial support to advance the programme.
Further Research Still Needed
Despite the encouraging results, scientists emphasise that important questions remain unanswered. Researchers are still investigating how SIRT6 produces these rejuvenating effects and whether similar outcomes can be achieved safely in organs beyond the liver.
While human applications remain in the future, the study offers new evidence that some biological features associated with ageing may be more adaptable than previously thought. Scientists say continued research will be essential before any potential treatment can move from laboratory studies to clinical use.