Researchers from the IBVF contribute to a key advance in longevity and healthy aging

Two researchers from the Institute of Plant Biochemistry and Photosynthesis (IBVF-CSIC/University of Seville), Dr Ángeles Aroca and Dr Luis C. Romero, have participated in an international study that reveals an innovative mechanism to promote longevity and health in mammals. The work, published in the prestigious journal Cell Metabolism, demonstrates that the non-enzymatic generation of hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) through natural compounds present in garlic can extend lifespan and improve metabolic, locomotor, and cognitive health in mice.

The study, led by Alejandro Martín-Montalvo’s team (CABIMER), shows that the chronic administration of diallyl sulfur compounds increases the sustained production of H₂S, a gasotransmitter with antioxidant and metabolism-regulating functions. This increase translates into an 11.4% extension of the animals’ average lifespan, along with significant improvements in glucose regulation, motor function, and neurocognitive parameters.

The contribution of the IBVF has been essential in the analysis of post-translational modifications in proteins through persulfidation, a key mechanism by which H₂S exerts its biological effects. These modifications have been linked to redox signaling processes and to the regulation of metabolic pathways involved in aging.

In addition, the study includes human data suggesting that high levels of protein persulfidation are associated with greater muscle strength and lower triglyceride concentrations, reinforcing the physiological relevance of this mechanism. This finding opens new perspectives for the development of nutritional and pharmacological strategies based on natural compounds that could contribute to healthy aging.

Referencia del artículo:
Enhanced non-enzymatic H₂S generation extends lifespan and healthspan in male mice. Cell Metabolism, 2025.

Cáliz-Molina, M.Á., López-Fernández-Sobrino, R., Pino-Pérez, I., Panadero-Morón, C., Vilches-Pérez, M.d.C., Camacho-Cabrera, M., García-Ruiz, A., Pérez-Rosendo, L., Espadas, I., Sola-García, A., Soriano-Navarro, M., Martin, F., Venegas-Calerón, M., Salas, J.J., Martínez-Force, E., Romero, L.C., Aroca, Á., González-Prieto, R., Bernabeu-Wittel, M., Capilla-González, V., Hine, C., and Martín-Montalvo, A. (2025). Enhanced non-enzymatic H2S generation extends lifespan and healthspan in male mice. Cell Metabolism.