Reading Time: 8 minutesCellular senescence is a hallmark of aging, with senescent cells exhibiting a range of dysfunctions, including metabolic reprogramming, DNA damage, oxidative stress, and secretion of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). Although senescence accrues with age, it can occur at any point during the life cycle and contributes to chronic disease risk. Immunosenescence…

Reading Time: 7 minutesArguably one of the most indispensable trace elements, iron is a requirement for DNA synthesis, oxygen delivery and energy metabolism, as well as immune function. Nonetheless, iron must be delicately handled and tightly regulated to mitigate toxic consequences. The Goldilocks paradox lies in its reactive nature. As a transition metal, the iron…

Reading Time: 6 minutesMetallothioneins are liver-produced, metal-binding proteins rich in cysteine residues. The sulfhydryl groups provided by such residues enable chelation of several metal ions, including lead, cadmium, and zinc, creating metal-thiolate clusters. The primary metallothioneine isoforms are MT1, MT2, MT3, and MT4, each of which displays a unique biological function and tissue-specific pattern of…

Reading Time: 5 minutesTrimethylamines (TMAs) are gut-derived metabolites that undergo transformation in the liver to trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO). While TMAO has historically been associated with cardiovascular disease risk, it’s novel interpretation as a neurological disease biomarker is gaining recognition. Both TMAO and its precursor TMA are able to readily cross the blood-brain barrier where they…