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Did anyone by chance get to go to that lecture on Sun. 5/21 in Wheaton, MD? It was about prevention(!) and reversal(!) of Alzheimer's, two subject which you never hear. I wasn't able to make it myself after all, but if anyone took my suggestion and attended, please either post some info either to myself or to the pd list here. I'm attaching (in 2-3 separate messages) the agenda/abstracts from a recent longevity conference, in which this same speaker made a similar presentation, and there were also many other relevant subjects discussed. Here goes part 1: ********* Session #1 Abstract # 4. THE REVERSIBLE CAUSES OF DEMENTIA. Vernon Mark, M.D., F.A.C.S., Director of Neuro-Diagnostic Services for AGES Health Services, Inc. and Center for Neuro-Diagnostics, Brookline, MA The loss of cognitive abilities in seasoned citizens over the age of 55 is often thought, even by physicians, to be the natural consequence of aging, an irreversible and a progressive downward slide that ends in dementia. All to often this is used as an excuse for not doing the necessary diagnostic evaluations that can result in meaningful treatments t restore intellectual function. Even in nursing home residents, Tom Sabin and I found that although 40% of the patients had an Alzheimer-like syndrome, 24% of the patients had stroke-like disease and another 20% had disorders such as pseudodementia of depression, brain poisoning with various medications, malnutrition, dehydration, sensory monotony because of hearing and vision loss as well as a medical and neurosurgical problems which were treatable and completely correctable. The percentage of treatable patients of patients complaining of memory loss outside of institutions is much greater. A review of some of the treatable causes of dementia, their clinical presentation, their treatment and prevention will be discussed along with some suggestions for the maintenance of optimal brain function in seasoned citizens. Session 1. Abstract # 5. HORMONES AND AGING Ronald L. Hoffman, M.D., Director, Hoffman Center, New York City, NY Hormones are known to impact many human aging parameters. The phenomenon of menopause and its physiological effects are well-characterized. But contemporary researchers are beginning to explore the male equivalent of menopause -"andropause"- as well as an endocrine transition that occur in both sexes - "adrenopause." Growth hormone secretion, too, declines with age, affecting muscle mass and vigor. Furthermore, many individuals are genetically programmed for a susceptibility to decline in thyroid function, or a tendency toward insulin resistance. The hypothalamus, pituitary, testes and ovaries, adrenals, pancreas, and thyroid participate in a complexly orchestrated process. Intervention aimed at selectively retarding certain features of aging must strive to avoid creating system imbalance. Endocrine aging affects skin, hair, body-fat composition, muscles, bones, liver, brain function, sleep, digestion, the cardiovascular system, and numerous other systems and functions. Virtually outside the intricate network of feedback loops that comprises the primary endocrine system is a mysterious gland that may play the most important role of all in "pacing" the aging process: the pineal. Studies of melatonin administration in animals show that it has a profound life-extending effect. This presentation will examine a rationale for, and clinical applications of various forms of hormone replacement therapy to retard aging. These include: 1. Estrogen and progesterone 2. Testosterone 3. Dehydroepiandrosterone, an adrenal steroid 4. Thyroid hormone 5. Growth hormone 6. Melatonin The presentation also examines nutritional and lifestyle strategies designed to minimize syndrome X, an aging phenomenon caused by insulin resistance. Session #3 Abstract #11. ANTI-MALIGNIN ANTIBODY IN SERUM (AMAS (R)) TEST: EARLY DETECTION OF CANCER Samuel Bogoch, M.D., Ph.D. and Elenore S. Bogoch, M.D., Foundation for Research on the Nervous System and Oncolab, Inc., Boston, MA The AMAS(R) Test measures quantitatively anti-malignin antibody (AMA) in the serum. AMA is an IgM auto-antibody against malignin and other members of the Recognin family which occur in cancer cells regardless of cell type, and which share malignin's epitopes. AMA has been isolated from human serum, produced as mouse monoclonal antibody, developed in human form by challenge of human lymphocytes with the antigen in vitro, and has been isolated from malignant cells obtained at surgery by elution and immunoabsorption to its immobilized purified antigen. In a study involving several hundred physicians and three independent laboratories in the USA and three hospitals and one laboratory in the UK, we have shown that the concentration of AMA in serum (ug/ml.) 1) of normal healthy non-tumor bearing individuals increases moderately every decade between the third and the seventh as the risk of cancer increases (p<.001; n=1972); 2) increases earlier and more strikingly in as yet apparently unaffected members of high-risk cancer families (p<.001; n=1106); and 3) is much increased in concentration in human serum within weeks of the occurrence of malignant transformation to clinical cancer, and returns to normal within 3 months of successful treatment (p<.001; false positives and false negatives <5% on first determination, <1% on repeat determination; n=600). Human anti-malignin antibody is cytotoxic to malignant cells in vitro in concentrations of picograms per cell. The serum concentration of anti-malignin relates quantitatively to survival in cancer patients: the higher the concentration the longer the survival. All of the above findings 1) appear to be direct evidence of immunosurveillance, and 2) indicate the possibility of augmenting this anti-cancer defense by the administration of the antibody itself or of derivatives of the antigen as vaccine. The AMAS(R) Test is available and is being used now for early detection and monitoring. In the predictive spirit of this conference, these findings also make possible, in the no-to-distant future, a marked change in cancer treatment. Thus, especially in those of high risk, instead of waiting for palpable masses or visible changes and other late signs of cancer, the repeated early detection with the AMAS(R) Test that cells have undergone malignant transformation could be followed by the repeated in vivo use of the radiolabelled antibody (SCANTAG(R) ) to pinpoint and destroy even a few cancer cells before they multiplied. Clinical cancer as we now know it could then become a rarity. (References: Cancer Detection and Prevention 12:313-320, 1988; The Lancet 337:977, 1991; J. Cell Biochem. 17G:248-249, 1993; Cancer Detection and Prevention 18(1):65-78, 1994; J. Cell Biochem. 19:172-185, 1994) Session # 3. Abstract # 12. CANCER PREVENTION BY NUTRITIONAL INTERVENTION Chithan Kandaswami, Ph.D., F.A.C.N., C.N.S., Dept. of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo General Hospital, Buffalo, NY. Numerous epidemiological studies that examined the relationship between fruit and vegetable intake and cancers of several organs showed a remarkable protective effect of fruit and vegetable consumption. High consumption of green and yellow vegetables especially those of the family Cruciferae appears to reduce the risk of developing cancer. Dietary antioxidants such as plant phenolics and flavonoids, vitamins C and E, and carotenoids often protect experimental animals against chemically induced cancer. Cancer (carcinogenesis) is a multistage process. Most of the cancer-causing chemicals (chemical carinogens) require metabolism to yield intermediates that can damage DNA and cause inheritable alterations. The level activity of the enzyme systems responsible for the activation and detoxification of carcinogens can vary in response to dietary exposures. Chemicals occurring in plants, phytochemicals, can modify the activities of these enzymes, and thus, may have a profound influence on carcinogenesis. The metabolic fate of a cancer-causing chemical depends on a balance between an organism's ability to metabolically activate the chemical to an intermediate that can bind to DNA and its capacity to convert such intermedicates to innocuous products for elimination from the body. The enzymes responsible for the activation process are generally the Phase I enzymes. The enzymes generally responsible for inactivation of the above intermediates are Phase II enzymes. Cancer protective chemicals present in fruits and vegetables such as tocopherols (vitamin E), flavonoids and polyphenols, flavonoid-related phenolic acids, vitamin C, carotenoids, isothiocyanates, dithiolthiones, etc., can afford cancer protection by inhibiting Phase I enzymes or stimulating Phase II enzymes. Dietary chemicals can also scavenge carcinogenic intermediates thus impairing the induction of cancer. Dietary antioxidants also possess the propensity to scavenge reactive oxygen species generated during tumor promotion, thus affecting the promotion of cancer. Phytochemicals can prevent cancer by their anti-carcinogenic, antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects. Certain compounds, such as the soy bean isoflavonoid genistein, may prevent the formation of new capillaries in tumors (angiogenesis). Epidemiological and experimental studies clearly indicate that nutritional intervention is beneficial in preventing cancer. Session #3 Abstract # 13. SENIOR SPORTS AND STABILITY TRAINING METHODS Robert M. Goldman, D.O., Ph.D., President, National Academy of Sports Medicine, Chicago, IL There are numerous techniques for enhancing physical performance, and similar biomechanics principles are in place for the Olympic level athlete as well as the 70 year old senior. The only variables are the intensity of the training (how hard), and duration of the exercise session (how long), and the frequency of the sessions (how often). In terms of resistance training, the senior athlete can perform a similar regime, but just uses a lower level of resistance, repetitions, and sets. Presented are the basic training concepts such as range of motion (ROM) symmetry, isometrics, isotonic and isokinetic contractions, and the application to the elderly athlete. Common exercise modalities such as treadmill, stairclimbers, stationary cycles, etc. are also discussed. One key element usually ignored in senior training programs is balance and stability training. The smaller muscle groups of the lower extremity are seldom trained yet these muscles are most important in preventing an individual from falling. Powerband techniques are presented and the basics for a senior program presented. In addition, there are a number of simple balance training devices used to enhance these programs such as the balance board, balance beam and Swiss exercise ball; these devices are explored. With proper guidance and direction, patients can achieve high function and significant muscle mass with resistance training techniques. Session #3 Abstract # 14. NUTRITION, EXERCISE, AGING AND THE HEART Stephen T. Sinatra, M.D., F.A.C.C., Chief of Cardiology, Manchester Memorial Hospital, Manchester, CT and Assistant Professor of Medicine, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT. The heart is the most susceptible of all the organs to premature aging and free radical oxidative stress. Clinical research has clearly documented the role of free radical damage and the progression of numerous degenerative diseases, especially cardiovascular diseases. Similar free radical damage may occur under everyday conditions, such as exercise. This may be the result of ischemia-reperfusion injury as well as oxidative damage secondary to lipid peroxidation which occurs as a result of increasing oxygen consumption associated with physical exercise. Regular exercise promoting flexibility and strength has been known to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, CVA, developing hypertension, osteoporosis, obesity, and non-Insulin dependent diabetes. However, in addition to the health benefits of exercise, there are obvious risks including oxidative stress, myocardial infarction and sudden death. Fortunately, although highly responsive, and therefore, vulnerable to the effects of physical exertion, the heart is also responsive to the benefits of targeted nutritional supplementation. The effects of antioxidant nutrients have been extensively evaluated in epidemiological and population studies. Antioxidant nutrients, such as natural flavonoids found in fresh fruits and vegetables or vitamins C, E, and beta carotene, as well as CoEnzyme Q10, may not only minimize the risk and optimize the benefits of exercise, but also may have favorable effects on the ubiquitous aspects of aging on the cardiovascular system. The B complex is also essential in the prevention of hyperhomocysteinemia, another major risk factor for the circulatory system. The combination of a healthy diet supplemented with antioxidant nutrients, and regular exercise, may be useful in the prevention and promotion of optimal cardiovascular health. Session #3 Abstract # 15. BRAIN RESUSCITATION Ronald Klatz, D.O., President, American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, Chicago, IL The medical literature has documented that cardiac arrest remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in industrialized nations. Stokes affect half a million Americans every year. The incidence of neurologic morbidity and mortality following successful resuscitation from cardiac arrest remains high. Any improvement in cerebral resuscitation following cerebral ischemia would be clinically important. The changes in the brain after cardiac arrest and resuscitation may be responsible for the ultimate survival and much of the neurologic damage, producing greater morbidity and mortality successfully resuscitated patients. The damage to neurons may be due to oxygen free radical processes. During reperfusion of brains following cardiac arrest, free radical medicated, site-specific protein oxidation performs an important role in the pathophysiologic process in the central nervous system. In attempts to improve this outcome, a number of therapeutic interventions have been tested experimentally in both the laboratory and the clinical settings. One non-pharmacologic resuscitative therapy is hypothermia. Numerous researchers reported that hypothermia is protective of tissue function in cerebral ischemia. During hypothermic conditions, cellular metabolism is markedly reduce. Thus, cellular oxygen requirements are reduced as the metabolic rate slows. This tends to diminish cellular damage during oxygen deprivational ischemia. A brain cooling device has been developed to provide resuscitative therapy for use in humans. This technological approach will be discussed. Session #4 Abstract # 16. OVERVIEW OF SESSION #4: COMMUNICATING ANTI-AGING MEDICAL INFORMATION During this symposium, we will explore the impact that the print and electronic media have on shaping both the health mindfulness of today's medical care consumer as well as the media's power in setting agendas for high priority scientific research. Participants will discuss the experience in working within America's main-stream major media. They will relate their experiences in attempting to promote the cause of Anti-Aging Medicine from the outside. Panel members will discuss strategies by which the concepts of healthy aging, anti-aging, and longevity medicine can best be presented to the American public as these are new and often misunderstood. There is a concern that the information that is reported is factual and scientifically grounded. Perhaps the most important goal of the Anti-Aging Movement today is to educate both the public at large and the scientific community that aging is largely a treatable disease. Thus, the concept of a long, productive and healthful lifespan of 120 years is no longer a wild fantasy or idle rambling. It is rather a scientifically sound and achievable goal that is attainable within our lifetime. In addition, this session will be a forum and opportunity for the audience to voice their questions to the pane of highly successful and experienced communications professionals. Session #4 Abstract # 17.THE MOST AFFORDABLE ANTI-AGING THERAPY William Faloon, Vice-President, The Life Extension Foundation, Hollywood, FL FDA regulation causes many anti-aging therapies to be cost prohibitive for the average American. Some members of the Life Extension Foundation spend in excess of $25,000.00 annually for growth hormone, DHEA, thymosin, and other hormone replacement could be under $5,000.00 a year. One hormone replacement therapy that has slipped through the FDA's bureaucratic price-inflating barrier is melatonin. Natural melatonin synthesis declines with aging and many of the degenerative diseases associated with aging can be attributed to melatonin deficiency. Fortunately, melatonin replacement therapy is affordable to everyone, which means that for less than $5.00 a month, people 40 years of age and older can take a 3 mg. melatonin supplement every night. Having assured the reader that they can at least afford this therapy, I will briefly describe some new facts about this remarkable anti-aging hormone. In August 1994, The New York Academy of Sciences published a 588 page book of scientific studies investigating current means of slowing aging and preventing cancer. There were fifteen new papers presented on melatonin in this book that help to clarify the potential role this hormone plays in preventing disease and extending lifespan. These new studies suggest that melatonin may be the single most important component of a scientific life extension program. Melatonin is a potent antioxidant. Most antioxidant nutrients have difficulty penetrating cell membranes. Melatonin, on the other hand, enters cells and subcellular compartments with ease which is crucial in protecting intracellular molecules from oxidative damage. An antioxidant molecule must have access to subcellular compartments (i.e. the mitochondria) in order to quench the hydroxyl radicals, considered by some to be the most damaging of all radicals. Experimental human studies conducted in Europe indicate that melatonin may be an important adjuvant therapy in the treatment of most forms of cancer. When advanced cancer patients are given low doses of interleukin-2 (3 million i.u. subcutaneously, six out of seven nights for six weeks) and high doses of melatonin significant percentage of cancer patients. We conclude that melatonin, which is available over-the-counter in the U.S., is the most cost-effective anti-aging therapy available. Session #3 Abstract # 18. ANTI-AGING MEDICINE - THE FUTURE OF MEDICAL PRACTICE. Robert M. Goldman, D.O., Ph.D., President, National Academy of Sports Medicine, Chicago, IL Anti-Aging Medicine allows both the medical professional and patient to be empowered to have control over the state of their personal health and well being and quality of their fitness and life functions. When we view aging as a disease to be controlled, the peak level of personal performance and the quality of life functions can be enhanced. Muscles have memory, and virtually every individual has the capacity for muscle hypertrophy, increased strength and energy levels, and most importantly, the ability to change the path of their body potentials. Many anti-aging interventions are simple, and common sense in nature: proper diet with natural healthy foodstuffs, vitamin supplementation, and intelligent exercise regimens. Those seeking a more aggressive approach can employ cutting edge pharmaceutical, hormonal, and surgical options. The exciting aspect of this new field is that there is something for everyone, and there is an individual choice to take action against changes that were before accepted without opposition. Today we have 70 year olds with the bodies of those less than half their age, and with the progression of this landmark scientific research, these peaks will continue to surpass the goals of the past. Anti-Aging Medicine is the future of medical practice. It encompasses all specialties and fields. It can be accessed and utilized by everyone. Anti-Aging Medicine just makes common sense and it works. Session #5 Abstract # 19. AUTO-IMMUNITY AND THE AGING PROCESS. Paul Yanick, Ph.D., Ctr. for Biological Energetics, Milford, PA A hypothesis is proposed that decreased auto-immunity is a result of accelerated molecular injury due to functional disturbances of the lymphatic system, liver and neuroendocrine systems. Structural and functional impairments of immune cells due to a reduction in electron transfer defenses cause enzyme induction and inactivation involving dysregulation of acetylation, carbon and sulfur oxidation, methylation, conjugation, glucuronidation of acetylation, carbon and sulfur oxidation, methylation, conjugation, glucuronidation, plasma membrane receptors, membrane peroxidation, oxidative protein cross-linking and molecular permutations of the oligo- and polysaccharides. The length of the life span of an organism is determined by the ability of its tissues to produce enzymes and maintain the delicate balance between metabolic oxidant stress and antioxidant defense. Long before pathology is observed, there are losses in functional integrity of the organ systems with increasing sensitivity to the environment and a gradual reduction in vitality. Vital to the understanding of auto-immunity is the view of the body as an energy system, composed of oscillations at various frequencies. These oscillations can assist physicians in locating energetic imbalances that reveal many inerrelationships between various organs, systems and cellular networks of the body (Functional Medicine). Functional Medicine embodies a strategically implemented multidimensional approach that includes functional-energetic assessment or meridians, interference sites and the dominant focus of the illness. Establishing the functional activity of various organs, glands and systems of the body through energetic assessment provides invaluable information about the true nature of immunosuppression. Effective care for patients with immune disorderscan be accomplished only with an understanding of how the immune system orchestrates the immune response in concert with the neurohormonal-energetic system and the digestivesystem as both a protective barrier of defense and a system that provides nourishment to the immune system. The author has successfully applied this multidimensional diagnostic and therapeutic approach in thousands of cases to fully auto-immune response. This presentation will provide an appropriate program of immune modulation that inhibits biological aging of the immune system, maintains or increases organ or immune reserve and supports other involved systems of the body. ************ more to follow: