Etymological Notes and Origins
The etymological origins of the name Klotho come from Greek mythology. It describes the name of one of the “Three Fates”, it was Klotho’s responsibility to “spin” the thread of life. This compares to the qualities of Klotho in aiding the longevity of life and reducing cellular decay. Although Klotho has regenerative properties and could be described as an anti-aging agent, its use is most beneficial when used in the prevention of health issues. Various studies have indicated its regenerative and stabilizing properties. Although there are many, in this article we will focus on its beneficial impact on preventing disease within the renal and cardiovascular systems.
How was Klotho Discovered and Where was it Found in the Body?
The benefits of Klotho have been found retroactively through measuring the levels that were present within animals and individuals that were experiencing physical decline, particularly that present in cardiac and renal failure. In 1997, it was discovered that in mice that exhibited age complications and the connecting factor was that there were low levels of the Kotho protein residing within them and the protein was present most in the kidneys and brain.
Prevention of Heart Attacks
During a myocardial infarction (heart attack), cell apoptosis (cell death) occurs, and it can severely affect the efficiency of the cardiovascular system. In 2016, it was found that Klotho is expressed in myocardial tissue and has been proven to provide not only prevention of inflammatory and oxidative stress but it has antiapoptotic qualities which promote a stronger heart and even a thicker epicardium (the innermost and outer layer making up the heart). Klotho was found to be deficient in people who experienced cardiovascular diseases, so its use promotes the prevention of cardiac disease.
Prevention of Renal Issues
The end-stage of renal disease and failure can also lead to heart attack and cardiac disease. In general, renal function is necessary for the proper disposal of waste and absorption. Low levels of Klotho were observed in individuals experiencing long-term hypertension, renal failure, diabetes, and hypertension. When Klotho has been replenished in the system, there has been demonstrated histological improvement in the quality of renal tissue, function, and resulting cardiovascular improvement as well.
Why Consider Klotho?
The process of aging on a biological level is one of the cellular decay and oxidative stress, both of which Klotho has been proven to play an aiding role in. Its functions directly promote the prevention of aging processes, particularly ones that affect the cardiovascular, renal, neurological, and general cellular systems, promoting homeostasis and optimal organ function.