Telomere defense supplement combining spermidine, resveratrol, and urolithin A for stem cell health
A research-stage dietary supplement concept combining three naturally derived compounds shown to influence telomere length and telomerase activity. The combination targets reduced telomere shortening in human stem cells, with potential applications in healthy aging and cellular regeneration.
Overview
This project explores the development of a dietary supplement that combines three naturally occurring compounds—spermidine, resveratrol, and urolithin A—to reduce telomere shortening and support telomerase activity in human stem cells. Each compound has independently demonstrated potential benefits for cellular aging and tissue health in prior research. The core hypothesis is that combining these substances may produce a complementary or synergistic effect, leading to stronger protection against telomere attrition than any single compound alone. By targeting stem cell populations, the research aims to support tissue regeneration and overall healthspan, addressing a fundamental mechanism of aging.
Technical specifications
Compound profile:
- Spermidine: A naturally occurring polyamine linked to improved lifespan in model organisms and protection against telomere reduction in cardiac tissues in mouse studies
- Resveratrol: A well-known antioxidant shown to support telomerase activity and telomere integrity in cardiac stem cells
- Urolithin A: A gut-microbiota-derived metabolite of ellagitannins (found in pomegranates) associated with increased longevity in nematode models and improved muscle function in rodents
Research approach:
- Cell models using human hematopoietic stem cells and human mesenchymal stem cells
- Treatment conditions include each compound individually, all pairwise combinations, and the full three-compound combination, alongside untreated controls
- Treatment maintained over at least four cell passages with regular observation of cellular changes
- Telomere length and telomerase activity quantified using real-time polymerase chain reaction
- Statistical analysis comparing all treatment conditions to identify additive or synergistic effects
Technology readiness level
This is an early-stage research concept at Technology Readiness Level 2–3. Individual compounds have established preclinical evidence supporting their roles in telomere maintenance and cellular aging, but the specific combination has not yet been validated. The proposed one-year study will generate the first experimental data on the combined effects in human stem cell models. Successful results would establish proof of concept necessary to advance toward formulation development and eventual clinical evaluation. The project is currently seeking funding partnerships to support materials and key research personnel.
About University of Ljubljana
The University of Ljubljana is a comprehensive public research university and Slovenia’s largest, anchored in the capital with extensive faculty laboratories and clinical, cultural, and technical assets. Companies engage through a central Knowledge Transfer Office that brokers collaborative R&D, IP licensing, and spin‑out pathways, complemented by the Ljubljana University Incubator for venture creation; the city’s technology park adds a dense startup and scale‑up community. Clinical translation benefits from integration with the University Medical Centre Ljubljana, enabling access to hospital‑based research and patient cohorts. Research is supported by competitive European programs and Slovenia’s national research and innovation agency (ARIS). Clearly defined commercialization routes—technology offers, industry matchmaking, and spin‑outs—help partners move from proof‑of‑concept to market.
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