Scientists Identify Immune Protein That Could Mimic Anti-Aging Effects of Calorie Restriction

A Nature Aging study of CALERIE participants found that moderate calorie restriction lowered levels of the immune protein C3.

Follow-up mouse and cell work suggested age-related macrophages in visceral fat produce C3, linking it to inflammation and aging.

The results point to a specific pathway that may help explain the benefits of modest diet reduction.

The findings could guide treatments that mimic calorie restriction and support healthier aging without extreme weight loss.