The Sankei Shimbun 
FANCL held a press conference to announce their research on eliminating senescent cells. (Provided by FANCL)
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Japanese cosmetics company FANCL announced on March 6 that it has become the first in the world to identify a substance capable of removing senescent cells. These cells stop dividing, lose their original functions, and secrete substances that accelerate aging. The company also developed a method to measure these cells with minimal impact on the human body.
Their research found that agrimoniin, an antioxidant found in Agrimonia pilosa (a member of the rose family), reduces the number of senescent cells in the body.
A clinical trial involving 110 Japanese men and women aged 40 to under 60 showed promising results. The male group who took supplements containing agrimoniin experienced a decrease in senescent cells.
Improved Health in Mice
In mouse experiments, those with senescent cells removed were more active and had better kidney function compared to mice with senescent aging cells.
Until now, measuring the amount of senescent cells in the human body was not possible. However, FANCL has developed a method to assess the progression of aging using small blood samples. The process involves analyzing "killer cells" — immune cells that attack virus-infected cells — and comparing their levels of senescent cells. The research findings will be published in the Swiss medical journal Nutrients.
Agrimonia pilosa grows in Japan, Taiwan, China, and other parts of Asia, traditionally consumed as tea or in side dishes like salads and tempura. FANCL plans to use these insights to develop functional foods and supplements.
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Author: The Sankei Shimbun
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