AMPK (adenosine monophosphate-ativated protein kinase) is an energy sensing enzyme in all cellular organisms. Activation of AMPK causes a multitude of beneficial processes, such as promoting healthy glucose and lipid levels, to name just two. AMPK activation has been associated with treatment or prevention of many chronic diseases, such as obesity, Type II diabetes, metabolic syndrome and cancer. We know that levels of AMPK are regulated by the ADP/ATP balance in the cell. We also know that EXERCISE increases AMPK.
Now, it seems that another benefit of aspirin is activation of AMPK. A recent study from McMaster University, the University of Dundee and the University of Melbourne http://the-scientist.com/2012/04/20/new-target-for-aspirin/ helps explain the benefit. The salicylate in the aspirin directly increases the activity of AMPK. Could this be the mechanism of cancer prevention in daily aspirin use?
This finding doesn't mean we should "load-up" on more aspirin, but may point to a new avenue of research for finding cancer or diabetes prevention drugs.
Did Hippocrates envision this discovery, when in 400BC he recommended willow bark (the natural source of salicylate) for aches and pains?
For now, I recommend EXERCISE to activate AMPK and all of its benefits.
Together we can prevent 75,000 cancer cases each year!
This content is intended as general information and not personal medical advice.
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