Tomonori Kimura, Ph.D., M.D. | National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation
Competition Sponsor: Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development
Awardee Year: 2020
Most amino acids have D- and L-enantiomers (chiral bodies). Although D-amino acids are present only in trace amounts unlike abundant L-amino acids, we have demonstrated that trace amounts of D-amino acids are indeed present in human body, and that levels of D-amino acids, but not those of L-amino acids, are useful for early diagnosis and prediction of prognosis in chronic kidney disease, a representative of age-related diseases. Research of D-amino acids are now spreading to cover diagnosis of age-, life style-related, and rare diseases. D-Amino acids as biomarkers will greatly contribute to healthy longevity through the prevention of age-related diseases. Based on the direct reflection of disease activity, studies to elucidate the physiological function of D-amino acid are underway with an aim to establish a novel anti-aging strategy.
To learn more about this proposal email healthylongevity@nas.edu.