Anti-Aging Drug Discovery Targeting AMPK

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a heterotrimeric enzyme composed of alpha, beta, and gamma subunits. AMPK is activated by falling ATP and rising AMP, leading to a cascade of metabolic responses that enhance energy production and inhibit energy-consuming processes. This regulation is crucial during aging, as the decline in cellular energy metabolism significantly contributes to the deterioration of various physiological functions. Research suggests that the activation of AMPK may extend lifespan by improving metabolic health and reducing the risk of age-related diseases. The influence of AMPK on autophagy, inflammation, and oxidative stress processes contributes to its longevity effects.

Fig. 1 Schematic overview of the signaling pathways targeted by AMPK activation. (Salminen A and Kaarniranta K, 2012)

CD BioSciences helps clients develop novel anti-aging drugs targeting the AMPK signaling pathway. Our expertise in this pathway facilitates the development of anti-aging therapeutics that may enhance metabolic health and improve longevity.

Types of Anti-Aging Drugs Targeting AMPK We Can Develop

AMPK activators

We support our clients in the design and synthesis of novel AMPK activators. Our high-throughput screening platforms enable the identification of novel small molecule activators of AMPK. We also provide in-depth pharmacokinetic and safety evaluation services to ensure that drug candidates are suitable for further development.

Additionally, we have expertise in helping clients isolate and characterize natural AMPK activators from various sources. We extract bioactive compounds from plants and other natural sources, followed by purification processes to isolate effective AMPK activators. Employing in vitro and in vivo models, we help clients assess the potential anti-aging effects of these natural compounds.

Caloric restriction mimetics (CRMs)

We help clients develop caloric restriction mimetics (CRMs) to enhance AMPK activation and mimic the beneficial effects of calorie restriction on lifespan. We also utilize experimental models to determine whether CRMs can mimic the physiological effects of caloric restriction.

How Do We Analyze AMPK Activation Affect Lifespan?

At CD BioSciences, we offer comprehensive services to analyze the effects of AMPK activation on lifespan.

In vitro assays

We provide a variety of biochemical assays to study how AMPK activation influences cellular metabolism, autophagy, and senescence. We support clients in measuring cell proliferation and detecting senescence-associated β-galactosidase activity or other senescence markers.

In vivo assays

We provide in vivo services utilizing various experimental models to investigate the effects of AMPK activation on lifespan and age-related phenotypes. We then help clients evaluate anti-aging drugs targeting AMPK, monitoring factors such as physical activity and metabolic health.

Targeting AMPK in Aging-Related Cardiovascular Diseases

The role of AMPK in metabolic and cardiovascular homeostasis makes it an attractive target for the treatment of these diseases. CD BioSciences is actively engaged in helping clients develop therapeutics that target the AMPK signaling pathways to address aging-related cardiovascular diseases. We also help clients analyze whether these drugs prevent cardiac hypertrophy and improve vascular function by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.

AMPK as a target for anti-aging drug discovery presents a compelling avenue for research and therapeutic development. At CD BioSciences, our comprehensive drug development services, from initial screening to preclinical testing, make us a reliable partner for anti-aging drug discovery. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us or make an online inquiry.

References

1. Stancu AL. AMPK activation can delay aging. Discoveries (Craiova), 2015, 3 (4): e53.
2. Li T, et al. Targeting AMP-Activated Protein Kinase in Aging-Related Cardiovascular Diseases. Aging Dis, 2020, 11 (4): 967-977.
3. Salminen A, Kaarniranta K. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) controls the aging process via an integrated signaling network. Ageing Res Rev, 2012, 11 (2): 230-41.