Advanced Glycation End Products (Ages): Is the Scientific Need to Travel Back in Time to Regain Health Now Obvious?

Abstract

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are proteins or lipids that become glycated after exposure to sugars. AGEs may modify the extracellular matrix (ECM); modify the action of hormones, cytokines, and free radicals via engagement of cell surface receptors; and impact the function of intracellular proteins..AGEs block nitric oxide activity in the endothelium and cause the production of reactive oxygen species. AGEs cause microvascular and macrovascular complications by formation of cross-links between molecules in the basement membrane of the extracellular matrix and by engaging the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE). Activation of RAGE by AGEs causes upregulation of the transcription factor nuclear factor-κB and its target genes. AGEs can be formed either endogenously or exogenously. Endogenously, advanced glycation takes place in all cell types via the Maillard reaction between reducing sugars and amino residues present in proteins, lipids, and DNA, resulting in loss of protein structure and function followed in some instances by cellular apoptosis. Transition to plant based antioxidant diet with traditional Indian cooking methods seems to confer multitude of health benets.