Dietary polyphenols to reduce inflammation in the elderly (STUDY 2)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Dietary polyphenols as modulators of redox signalling pathways to reduce chronic inflammation in the elderly (STUDY 2)
IRAS ID
81756
Contact name
Malcolm Jackson
Contact email
Research summary
The number and proportion of elderly people in the UK is set to reach unprecedented levels over the coming decades. Despite increasing life expectancy, there remains a high burden of chronic disease amongst older members of the population. Ageing is associated with low-level inflammation. During ageing a breakdown of cell signalling pathways occur which lead to the production of harmful substances that promote inflammation. This low-level inflammation is implicated as a risk factor in many chronic age-related diseases such as cancers, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Research over the last 30 years has shown that diets rich in fruits and vegetables help to protect against many of these age-related diseases. Compounds called polyphenols are thought to contribute to these beneficial effects of fruits and vegetables. From laboratory studies on cells, we have identified several polyphenol-rich supplements that we think have the potential to reduce inflammation in the elderly. In this study we will give polyphenol supplements to healthy people aged 65 years or over. We will take blood samples before and following 2 weeks supplementation to identify changes in cell signalling and inflammation. We hope that this work will improve our knowledge of dietary polyphenols and possibly lead to nutritional supplements to support health in ageing.
REC name
North West - Greater Manchester East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/NW/0505
Date of REC Opinion
15 Aug 2013
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion