Fisetin is a naturally occurring flavonoid found in various fruits and vegetables, such as strawberries, apples, persimmons, and cucumbers. It has gained attention in recent years for its potential benefits in promoting longevity, slowing aging, and improving overall health. While more research is needed to fully understand the extent of these benefits, several scientific studies have identified potential mechanisms through which fisetin may exert its effects:
- Senescence inhibition: Cellular senescence is a state where cells lose their ability to divide and function, contributing to the aging process. Fisetin has been found to selectively eliminate senescent cells, reducing the negative impact of these nonfunctional cells on tissues and organs. A study by Zhu et al. (2017) showed that fisetin can reduce the number of senescent cells in mice, suggesting that it may have potential in promoting longevity and delaying aging (https://doi.org/10.1111/acel.12626).
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Chronic inflammation has been implicated in various age-related diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. Fisetin has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties in multiple in vitro and in vivo studies. For example, a study by Maher et al. (2016) found that fisetin could suppress the production of inflammatory mediators in both cell cultures and mouse models (https://doi.org/10.1080/10715762.2016.1231402).
- Antioxidant properties: Oxidative stress, which results from an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and antioxidant defenses, can cause cellular damage and contribute to the aging process. Fisetin has demonstrated antioxidant properties in various studies, neutralizing ROS and protecting cells from oxidative damage. A study by Syed et al. (2016) showed that fisetin could protect against oxidative stress-induced cell death in human neuroblastoma cells (https://doi.org/10.1007/s11064-015-1800-2).
- Neuroprotection: Age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases are significant concerns in aging populations. Fisetin has been found to exert neuroprotective effects in various models. A study by Currais et al. (2014) found that fisetin could improve memory and reduce cognitive deficits in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease (https://doi.org/10.1007/s12035-014-8757-1).
- Cancer prevention: Fisetin has demonstrated anticancer properties in various studies, including inhibiting cancer cell growth and inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells. A study by Kashyap et al. (2016) found that fisetin could inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells and induce apoptosis (https://doi.org/10.1002/pros.23184).
While these studies suggest that fisetin may have potential in promoting longevity, slowing aging, and improving health, it is essential to note that many of these studies have been conducted in cell cultures or animal models. More research, particularly in human trials, is necessary to confirm these effects and determine the optimal dosage and safety profile of fisetin supplementation.
