01

They have the ability to impact at least one, and ideally multiple, mechanisms of aging simultaneously

These aging mechanisms are epigenetic alterations, loss of proteostasis (protein accumulation inside and outside our cells), cellular senescence, mitochondrial dysfunction, genomic instability, deregulated nutrient sensing, altered intercellular communication (e.g., inflammation/inflammaging), and so on.

Ideally, each ingredient influences multiple aging mechanisms. For example, glycine has epigenetic effects but can also act as a chaperone, protecting proteins and helping the body deal with protein accumulation (which is one of the reasons why we age). Glucosamine can improve mitochondrial health by inducing mitochondrial biogenesis, but can also support autophagy. In this way, combining such ingredients enables synergistic effects on the aging process.

02

They have been able to extend lifespan in various animal models, hinting at conserved evolutionary pathways

Ideally, the ingredients extend lifespan not in just one animal model, but in different species. If the compound extends lifespan in various different species, it’s more likely it will also work in humans. Examples are alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG), which extends lifespan in C elegans, fruit flies, and mice. Glycine can extend lifespan in C elegans and fruit flies, but also in mice and rats.

03

They are associated with reduced risk of different aging-related processes and outcomes in humans and animals, indicating that they act on the underlying aging process

A substance that can improve various aging-related symptoms, for example by slowing down brain aging, improving heart health, and boosting metabolism, is likely to act on the underlying mechanism that unites all these aging-related afflictions. For example, pterostilbene can contribute to healthy brain aging and support a healthy sugar metabolism, while also improving cardiovascular function and contributing to a healthy inflammatory response.

04

They are associated with reduced risk of mortality in humans

Ideally, studies also show an association between reduced mortality in humans that take the supplement on a regular basis. For example, studies in the US and Europe have shown that glucosamine was only one of the few supplements associated with reduced mortality. People who took glucosamine also had significantly healthier hearts and blood vessels.

05

They are nature-based, found in food or human biology, but levels decline with age

Ideally, they are nature-based and have been present alongside human evolution, and not novel man-made, lab-made molecules. All of the ingredients in NOVOS’ formulations are found in nature.

Ideally, the substances are found in our bodies, and their levels decline with age. This hints at their safety and to the fact that their declining levels could play a role in accelerating (or contributing) to aging. Examples of molecules present at higher levels in young tissues but declining with aging are alpha-ketoglutarate and glycine.

06

They have a very low side effect profile

The substances are known to cause very little side effects (if any), and no serious side effects, even at much greater dosages.

07

They have been used for decades or even centuries to treat specific symptoms or afflictions in humans without serious side effects

An example is glucosamine, that has been taken for decades to treat joint problems. Alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) is another example. This substance has been taken for many decades by athletes to improve energy levels without any significant side effects. Alpha-ketoglutarate has also been shown to slow aging and extend lifespan.

08

They are considered safe by the FDA, EFSA, and other organizations

Being recognized as safe by large institutional bodies like the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and EFSA (European Food Safety Agency) is another testimony to their safety.