Mineral supplement vanadyl sulfate cleared senescent cells and extended lifespan in male mice

Researchers at the University of Chicago screened for ways diet-related compounds might affect senescent cells, which accumulate with age and drive inflammation.

What they found

Oral vanadyl sulfate improved aging phenotypes and several age-related disorders in mice and extended lifespan in male mice. Senescent cells showed globally reduced protein cysteine reactivity and a buildup of oxidized glutathione (GSSG), linked to lower glutathione reductase. Vanadyl sulfate inactivated reactive cysteines and promoted disulfide bonds in senescent cells, causing protein misfolding, aggregation and cell death, while sparing non-senescent cells.

The nuance

All of the lifespan and disease data are from mice, and the lifespan gain was reported in males only. The abstract does not give effect sizes or doses relevant to people. Mouse results do not establish safety or benefit in humans.

Youthful take

Vanadyl sulfate is not approved to treat any condition, and this study is not a reason to take it. Senolytics remain investigational. Talk with a physician before adding any supplement marketed for aging.