Compound in Aged Garlic Extract Shows Potential to Combat Muscle Aging

New findings reveal that S-1-propenyl-L-cysteine (S1PC), a compound present in aged garlic extract, may activate pathways that enhance communication between fat tissue, the brain, and muscles, potentially mitigating age-related muscle decline.

A collaborative study conducted by the Institute for Research on Productive Aging (IRPA) in Tokyo and Wakunaga Pharmaceutical Co. in Hiroshima investigated the effects of S1PC on muscle function during aging. The research was published online in Cell Metabolism on May 7, 2026.

Dr. Kiyoshi Yoshioka, one of the first authors, explained that his clinical experience as a physical therapist motivated the research, aiming to improve muscle strength and fitness in older adults through dietary inclusion of a nutraceutical like S1PC.

Mechanism Behind S1PC's Anti-Aging Effects

The study demonstrated that S1PC activates liver kinase B1 (LKB1), an enzyme involved in cellular metabolism regulation. This activation facilitates the formation of a protein complex that triggers the SIRT1 pathway, increasing secretion of extracellular NAMPT (eNAMPT) from adipose tissue.

eNAMPT is crucial for generating NAD+, a molecule essential for DNA repair, cell protection, and energy production. Rather than acting directly on muscles, eNAMPT contained in extracellular vesicles travels through the bloodstream to the hypothalamus, a brain region controlling various bodily functions.

This signaling enhances sympathetic nervous system activity, which correlates with improved muscle performance. The researchers identified this as a novel communication pathway linking fat tissue, the brain, and skeletal muscle, influencing physical decline associated with aging.

Experimental Evidence in Mice and Humans

In aged mice, prolonged S1PC treatment reduced frailty scores, increased skeletal muscle strength, and normalized core body temperature. A human study revealed that S1PC elevated circulating eNAMPT levels, particularly in individuals with adequate fat tissue.

The consistent effect of S1PC on eNAMPT-EV secretion across cellular, animal, and human models supports its potential as an anti-aging intervention.

Implications and Future Research Directions

Dr. Shin-ichiro Imai, chairman of IRPA, highlighted the discovery of S1PC’s unique role in activating LKB1 and promoting inter-organ communication to alleviate muscle frailty. He noted the possibility of broader anti-aging effects warranting further investigation.

Given that aged garlic extract has a history of safe consumption, S1PC may offer a favorable safety profile as a nutraceutical option to address muscle decline alongside other NAD⁺-boosting strategies.

Future studies will focus on confirming improvements in human muscle function, assessing long-term impacts of S1PC, and exploring the role of LKB1 in the brain.