ABSTRACT
Aging may result from a gradual increase of molecular faults within the body. A key factor in aging is the decay of the mitochondria in cells caused by free radicals. Aging and damaged mitochondria process less fuel and are less efficient, so they produce less energy and more oxidant byproducts. One of the corporations, Juvenon, Inc., searches to enhance the performance of aging mitochondria. Another firm, Eukarion, Inc., focuses on bolstering anti-oxidant defenses to counter free radicals and to minimize oxidant byproducts in order to extend the human lifespan. Naturally occurring anti-oxidants and defense enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase and catalase, serve as the cell's primary protection against free radicals. Research on reactive oxygen species led to of Eukarion's patented synthetic catalytic scavenger compounds. The Buck Institute is the only freestanding institute in the United States devoted to basic research on aging and age-associated diseases.