glycation theory

biochemistry

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July 19, 2026

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The "glycation" theory of aging suggests that glucose plays a role in the aging process. Glycation occurs when simple sugars, like glucose, attach to proteins and lipids. This process has a cumulative effect over a lifetime and may be similar to the effects of high glucose levels observed in individuals with diabetes, which are associated with shorter lifespans.1

Glycosylation is the process of adding glycosyl groups to proteins, forming glycoproteins. While related, it's distinct from the glycation theory of aging, which focuses on the detrimental effects of non-enzymatic sugar binding. Glycosylated hemoglobin (hemoglobin A1c) is a measure used to monitor glycemic control in diabetes.23

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aging
theory
“Glycation” theory suggests that glucose acts as a mediator of aging. Glycation, in which simple sugars (e.g., glucose) bind to molecules such as proteins and lipids, has a profound cumulative effect during life. Such effects may be similar to the elevated glucose levels and…
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“Glycation” theory suggests that glucose acts as a mediator of aging. Glycation, in which simple sugars (e.g., glucose) bind to molecules such as proteins and lipids, has a profound cumulative effect during life. Such effects may be similar to the elevated glucose levels and…
Read More