Gemfibrozil promotes longevity and health by restricting amino acid uptake through the Dipeptide transporter, PEPT1

In vitro, gemfibrozil treatment also lowered signalling through mTOR; a master regulator of metabolism that is responsive to cellular amino acid levels and a viable therapeutic target under investigation to recapitulate the beneficial effects of dietary restriction in a nutrient-replete environment. In aged 20-month old female mice, a 6-month gemfibrozil regime resulted in an improvement in frailty, positively impacting parameters such as hearing loss, piloerection and grip strength.

Finally, in a DSS-induced colitis mice model, gemfibrozil appeared to alleviate symptoms; an effect often observed with PEPT1 inhibition. Overall, our study reveals a potential role of gemfibrozil, a largely safe clinically approved drug in circumventing the negative consequences of overnutrition often seen in a modern-day diet, and as an effective means to promote lifespan and healthspan.