'Anti-aging' Research in Progress at HKUST

Abstract

[evdate 1994-02-03] Office of Public Affairs HONG KONG TECHNOLOGY Tel: (852) 358 6316 Fax: (852) 358 0537 For immediate release 3 February I994 'Anti-aging' Research in Progress at HKUST Many Chinese herbs have been traditionally thought to have anti-aging properties, though the scientific basis for this belief has yet to be demonstrated. Researchers at HKUST are currently investigating these properties and developing herbal medicine-based products with enriched anti-oxidant characteristics. "We aim at improving existing preparations and discovering new drugs which can help people to live healthier and longer," says Dr Robert Ko, Lecturer in Biochemistry at HKUST. "If the anti-oxidant defense mechanisms of humans can be fortified, life expectancy can be increased significantly." Oxidation is a chemical process resulting in the removal of electrons from a molecule. Usually oxidation can lead to damage on cellular structure. Humans age in part because their protection against oxidation gradually declines, increasing tissue susceptibility to oxidant damage. The result can be disorders commonly associated with advanced age, including atherosclerosis, heart disease, cancer and arthritis. Dr Ko says that Hong Kong is the best place in the world to conduct such research. "Here we have abundant information and resources in herbal medicine, together with modern technology from the West. By combining the two, we can put the understanding of Chinese herbs on a scientific footing." (Direct enquiries to the Office of Public Affairs at 358 6320 or pager 1163388 call 2652) Clear Water Bay, Kowloon. Hong Kong Z # h 111 ;U 7): ii