DIETARY POLYAMINES FOR MODULATION OF AGING PROCESS IN THE GERIATRIC POPULATION Review Article

Polyamines (putrescine, spermidine and spermine) are ubiquitous low molecular weight amines that are positively charged under physiological conditions. Homeostatic control of intracellular polyamines level is achieved by regulating the synthesis, catabolism and transport of these molecules. Polyamines are involved in the regulation of a diverse range of vital cellular processes in both eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells, including cell proliferation, signal transduction and membrane stabilization. Putrescine, spermine and spermidine universally occurring in plant organs are involved in a wide array of processes, ranging from triggering organogenesis to protecting against stress. These plant polyamines provide the basis of dietary supplementation to maintain health. Although intake of dietary polyamines has been known for years as an important factor of health and disease, there are not too many literature reporting the exact polyamine food contents. The latest findings on the action of polyamines on the aging and disease processes suggest that polyamines, especially spermidine, are proven to be beneficial for modulating the aging process in the normal geriatric population. Up to this point, most of the modifications recognized to be beneficial to aging via dietary modification may be actually helpful against age-related diseases.