David Walker: Solving a great scientific mystery

Cracking the code behind aging has long since fascinated, frustrated and captivated scientists.  In our quest to live longer and better, a desire to fully understand the mechanisms that explain how and why we grow old, has been central to longevity research. In recent years some significant progress has been made. A clearer picture is emerging of the changes that occur, at a cellular level, that could dictate how our bodies respond to the passing years. In this episode of the LLAMA podcast, Prof. David Walker, a researcher at the University of California, Los Angeles, (UCLA) discusses his work with tiny worms and fruit flies, and explains the significance of myriad age-related issues, such as dysfunctional mitochondria, leaky intestines and inflammation. Recorded: March 2, 2021 | Read a transcript and show notes at the LLAMA podcast website.Disclosure: Prof. Walker is a member of the scientific board of JUVICELL, a sponsor of this LLAMA podcast episode. Topics covered in this interview include:Dr. Walker's academic journey from Belfast to Manchester and Los Angeles. Inspiration through  Jonathan Weiner's Time, Love Memory - a biography of Seymour Benzer, the biologist renowned for his study of genetics through experiments with fruit fly genes.  Working with nematode worms and fruit flies.  Aging - a great scientific mystery.  How our understanding of what is driving aging, at a cellular level, has evolved. Developing novel ways, using genes, to prevent age- related health decline.  Changing awareness of aging as we grow older.Accumulation of dysfunctional mitochondria and how it appears to be an important cellular hallmark of aging. The importance of autophagy for maintaining cellular health.Why do we age at different rates?  The pathophysiology of aging: How do age-related changes that affect organ function, relate to the health and viability of the aging organism?    Leaky intestines in fruit flies and humans . Inflammation and the link to age-onset diseasesGut bacteria and relevance to various diseases and health interventions. Diet and variability of our gut microbiome.High/low  protein diets and the aging gut, based on fruit fly studies.  Does eating less protein enhance longevity? Making better informed decisions about diet and dietary supplementation. PracticFit, Healthy & Happy Podcast Welcome to the Fit, Healthy and Happy Podcast hosted by Josh and Kyle from Colossus...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify Diet culture, you've met your scientific match.Debunking wellness trends, fitness fads, and diet culture with science. Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the showThe Live Long and Master Aging (LLAMA) podcast, a HealthSpan Media LLC production, shares ideas but does not offer medical advice.  If you have health concerns of any kind, or you are considering adopting a new diet or exercise regime, you should consult your doctor.