USC Study Links Mediterranean Diet to 2 Anti-Aging Microproteins as Oxidative Stress Falls
Updated
Updated · SciTechDaily · May 17
USC Study Links Mediterranean Diet to 2 Anti-Aging Microproteins as Oxidative Stress Falls
1 articles · Updated · SciTechDaily · May 17
Older adults with the strongest Mediterranean-diet adherence showed higher blood levels of two mitochondrial microproteins—humanin and SHMOOSE—in a USC-led observational study.
Those participants also had lower oxidative-stress markers, suggesting the diet may support healthier aging through mitochondrial signaling rather than only broad nutritional effects.
Olive oil, fish and legumes tracked with higher humanin, while olive oil and lower refined-carbohydrate intake were associated with higher SHMOOSE levels.
Humanin was also linked to lower Nox2 activity, pointing to a possible cardioprotective mechanism in which the diet both reduces reactive oxygen species and boosts protective peptides.
The researchers said the small study supports “precision nutrition,” with humanin and SHMOOSE potentially serving as biomarkers in future diet interventions aimed at lowering disease risk.
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Mediterranean Diet Boosts Humanin and SHMOOSE Microproteins, Unlocking New Pathways to Longevity
Overview
A recent USC-led study published in December 2025 revealed a key molecular mechanism behind the Mediterranean diet’s health benefits and its link to longevity. The research identified two novel mitochondrial microproteins, Humanin and SHMOOSE, as crucial mediators of these protective effects. While previous studies showed the Mediterranean diet reduces oxidative stress and inflammation, this study found that people who consistently follow the diet have higher levels of these microproteins. This discovery highlights how specific dietary patterns can directly influence cellular health and aging, offering new insights into how the Mediterranean diet promotes longer, healthier lives.