Authors
Saito K. Yoshioka H. Cutler RG.
Institution
Gerontology Research Center, National Institute on Aging, NIH, Baltimore, MD
21224, USA.
Title
A spin trap, N-tert-butyl-alpha-phenylnitrone extends the life span of mice.
Source
Bioscience, Biotechnology & Biochemistry. 62(4):792-4, 1998 Apr.
Abstract
To characterize the pharmacological effects of
N-tert-butyl-alpha-phenylnitrone (PBN) on life span, we administered PBN in
drinking water to 24.5-month-old mice, and the survivors were counted. Their
water consumption and body weights were measured as biological markers.
PBN-treated animals as compared with control animals had prolonged mean and
maximum life spans. Their water consumption decreased but no significant
change was found in their body weights, indicating that the metabolism was
improved. Results showed that PBN indeed affects physiological functions and
extends life span. We propose that nitric oxide release from PBN may be
involved in altering the aging process.