Mechanisms of Protection against Damage Mediated by the Maillard Reaction in Aging

The concept of anti-Maillard mechanisms as a basis for the genetic regulation of molecular damage by reducing sugars in aging and diabetes is discussed.

Abstract

In order to prevent or escape the ongoing damage to proteins and DNA resulting from amino-carbonyl reactions, the organism has to have powerful defense mechanisms. If the Maillard reaction played a role in determining longevity among mammalian species, one would expect protective mechanisms to be more developed in long- versus short-lived species. This article summarizes current knowledge in this field, and discusses the concept of anti-Maillard mechanisms as a basis for the genetic regulation of molecular damage by reducing sugars in aging and diabetes.