Scientists were able to see death itself
The researchers recorded the death process on the example of a worm whose body from cell to cell spread of blue fluorescent waves, until the entire body is not dead.
The mechanism of death of individual cells is well understood: it causes a chemical chain reaction that leads to the destruction of parts of cells and the formation of molecular debris. However, until now, scientists had only a vague idea of how "death" spread throughout the body. Looking at the dying worm under the microscope, the researchers noticed how blue light waves pass through the intestines.
According to a study published in the «PloS Biology», cell death (necrosis) throughout the body due to the chemical reaction with calcium present in the cells.
Head of Research, Professor David James of University College London, said the following:
«We were able to find out exactly what chemical reactions contribute to the spread of the wave of cell death. And when we tried to prevent the passage of light, in some cases, such as death from infection, got only slightly slow down the process, but to stop the process of destruction of old age, we did not. This suggests that the death of old age is due to many interrelated processes ».
blockquote> The source of the blue glow scientists previously believed lipofuscin substance - a byproduct of oxidation reactions, which accumulates in the body with age, but according to the latest data, in the dissemination of lipofuscin "blue wave of death" is not involved. The main cause of the blue light is now considered anthranilic acid.
«Taking into account all of the findings, we have questioned the popular theory that old age comes on as cells accumulate molecular damage. After studying the biological component of aging and death, we will be able to understand how to stop them, "- says Professor James.
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via factroom.ru
