Rapamycin, a compound originally discovered in the soil of Easter Island, has garnered significant attention in the field of longevity research due to its potential to extend lifespan and promote healthspan.
It works by inhibiting the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), a protein that plays a crucial role in regulating cell growth, metabolism and aging.
While rapamycin is typically used as a drug, there is growing interest in whether it can be found naturally in foods or consumed through dietary supplements to achieve similar benefits. This article delves deep into the presence of rapamycin in foods, explores its impact on health and reviews the available supplements.
To date, rapamycin itself is not found in any foods, but its life-extending potential has led to significant interest in dietary strategies and supplements that mimic its effects.
What is rapamycin and how does it work?
Before exploring where rapamycin might be found in foods, it’s important to understand its biological role. Rapamycin is classified as a macrolide compound, primarily recognized for its immunosuppressive and anti-proliferative properties.
It was first approved for medical use to prevent organ rejection in transplant patients. However, rapamycin’s ability to extend lifespan and delay age-related diseases in animal models has made it a focus of longevity research.
The role of mTOR in aging
Rapamycin inhibits the mTOR pathway, which is vital for cellular growth and metabolism. The mTOR complex has two forms: mTORC1 and mTORC2. Rapamycin selectively inhibits mTORC1, which regulates cell growth, protein synthesis and autophagy — a process where cells break down and recycle components.
When mTORC1 is overactive, it accelerates aging and increases the risk of diseases like cancer, cardiovascular disease and neurodegenerative disorders. Inhibiting mTORC1 has shown to extend lifespan in a variety of organisms, including yeast, worms, mice and flies. Studies suggest that rapamycin mimics the effects of caloric restriction, which is one of the most well-known interventions for extending lifespan.
Can rapamycin be found in foods?
There is a widespread misconception that rapamycin can be found in common foods. As of now, no foods are known to contain rapamycin directly. The compound was initially isolated from Streptomyces hygroscopicus, a bacterium found in the soil of Easter Island, not from any food source.
Therefore, it is not present in any substantial quantities in plants, animals, or fermented products commonly consumed in the human diet.
Rapamycin in fermented foods: a myth?
One of the common theories is that rapamycin might be present in fermented foods, given that it is a byproduct of microbial metabolism. However, there is no substantial scientific evidence that suggests rapamycin can be produced or consumed in measurable amounts through fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, or kimchi.
While certain bacteria and fungi can produce bioactive compounds during fermentation, rapamycin requires very specific conditions that do not typically occur in food production. Studies on fermentation focus primarily on probiotics, enzymes and peptides, but rapamycin itself has not been detected in food fermentation processes. Thus, despite the health benefits associated with fermented foods, rapamycin is not one of their active components.
Foods that affect mTOR pathways
While rapamycin itself is not found in food, certain foods can influence the mTOR pathway, indirectly mimicking the effects of rapamycin. By consuming these foods, it may be possible to reduce mTOR activity and potentially promote longevity. Below are some dietary components known to affect mTOR signaling:
Caloric restriction
Caloric restriction (CR) is one of the most effective non-pharmacological interventions for inhibiting mTOR. Studies show that reducing calorie intake by 20-40% without malnutrition can significantly decrease mTOR activity, thereby enhancing autophagy and promoting longevity. This has been observed across various species, from yeast to primates.
Plant based proteins
Animal proteins are rich in essential amino acids, particularly leucine, which strongly activates mTOR. On the other hand, plant based proteins such as those found in legumes, seeds and grains contain lower levels of leucine and may have a milder effect on mTOR signaling. Switching to a more plant-based diet could be a practical way to manage mTOR activity.
Foods rich in plant proteins
- Lentils;
- Chickpeas;
- Quinoa;
- Beans;
- Tofu.
Fasting and time-restricted eating
Intermittent fasting and time-restricted eating (TRE) are dietary strategies that have been shown to reduce mTOR activation. These approaches involve periods of fasting, which reduce nutrient availability and signal the body to enter a state of autophagy, similar to rapamycin’s mechanism of action.
Resveratrol
Resveratrol, a polyphenol found in red grapes, berries and peanuts, is a known activator of sirtuins, a group of proteins that regulate cellular health.
While it does not directly inhibit mTOR, resveratrol promotes longevity through pathways that overlap with those affected by mTOR inhibition.
Foods high in resveratrol
- Red grapes;
- Blueberries;
- Cranberries;
- Peanuts;
- Dark chocolate.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, have been shown to reduce inflammation and may have an indirect effect on mTOR signaling. Some research suggests that these healthy fats may help modulate pathways that promote cellular repair and longevity.
Foods rich in Omega-3
- Salmon;
- Sardines;
- Flaxseeds;
- Walnuts;
- Chia seed.s
Supplements mimicking rapamycin’s effects
While no foods contain rapamycin, several dietary supplements have been researched for their potential to mimic rapamycin’s effects or modulate mTOR activity. These supplements can serve as alternatives or adjuncts to rapamycin treatment for those interested in promoting longevity.
Rapamycin supplements
Pharmaceutical-grade rapamycin is available in some countries by prescription for specific medical conditions, particularly for organ transplant patients or certain forms of cancer.
However, using rapamycin off-label for longevity purposes is not widely endorsed due to the potential side effects, including immunosuppression, insulin resistance and wound healing complications.
Metformin
Metformin, a well-known diabetes medication, has gained popularity as a potential longevity drug due to its ability to reduce mTOR activity indirectly. Metformin has been shown to extend lifespan in animal models and it is currently being investigated in human clinical trials for its anti-aging potential.
Resveratrol supplements
Resveratrol supplements are widely available and are often taken for their antioxidant and anti-aging properties. While not as potent as rapamycin in inhibiting mTOR, resveratrol activates overlapping pathways and can be a useful addition to a longevity-focused supplement regimen.
Berberine
Berberine, a compound extracted from various plants, including Berberis, has been studied for its effects on glucose metabolism and aging. Some research suggests that berberine can mimic the effects of metformin and may also modulate mTOR activity.
Fisetin
Fisetin, a flavonoid found in strawberries and other fruits, is being studied for its senolytic properties — its ability to selectively clear senescent cells, which accumulate with age. While fisetin’s effects on mTOR are less direct, its overall impact on cellular health and aging make it a promising supplement in the longevity space.
NAD+ Boosters (NR and NMN)
Nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) are precursors to NAD+, a vital molecule involved in cellular energy metabolism and repair. These supplements may enhance the effects of mTOR inhibition by promoting cellular repair processes and reducing oxidative stress.
The future of rapamycin in longevity research
As research into rapamycin and the mTOR pathway continues to expand, scientists are exploring the possibility of developing rapamycin analogs or compounds that have fewer side effects than the original drug.
One of the primary concerns with long-term rapamycin use is its immunosuppressive effect, which can leave individuals vulnerable to infections. However, new research is focusing on “rapalogs,” drugs that target mTOR with greater specificity, reducing the risk of side effects.
Additionally, researchers are investigating intermittent dosing of rapamycin, where the drug is administered in cycles to maximize its benefits while minimizing risks. Early studies in mice suggest that intermittent dosing can extend lifespan without the adverse effects seen with continuous administration.
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