Biological markers and alterations linked to aging
In total, the researchers identified “twenty blood proteins associated with premature aging, whose blood concentration in active smokers is different from that observed in non-smokers”. All these proteins are involved either in pro-inflammatory processes, or in processes that promote cell death or the development of cancer.
Another observation, the group of smokers, even if the average age of its members was much lower than that of non-smokers and former smokers, presented “alterations usually related to aging”. Including thickening of the carotid artery and increased stiffness of the arteries.
The identification of these biological modifications is essential and could “constitute new therapeutic targets”, according to the authors. Because until now “the anti-inflammatory or antioxidant treatments that have been tested have not shown any real effectiveness in the management of cardiovascular risk”. But the authors point out, however, that “the best approach” to avoid undergoing these harmful changes “is to reduce the attractiveness of tobacco and to help those who smoke to quit as soon as possible”. Of which act.
*Pierre Drouin Plurithematic Clinical Investigation Center, CIC1433 Inserm/University of Lorraine/CHRU of Nancy and FCRIN INI-CRCT (Cardiovascular and Renal Clinical Trialists)
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