Dr. Stephanie Venn-Watson, a veterinary epidemiologist and co-founder of Seraphina Therapeutics, shares her groundbreaking discovery of C15, or Pentadecanoic acid, known as the first essential fatty acid found in nearly a century. She discusses its remarkable benefits for longevity, inflammation reduction, and cellular health, as well as dietary sources. The conversation also touches on the challenges of extracting C15 from plants and its promising role in supplements for overall wellness and chronic condition prevention.
C15, or pentadecanoic acid, was discovered through research on aging dolphins, revealing its significant link to better health outcomes.
Dietary sources of C15 include whole-fat dairy and certain fish, which are crucial for preventing nutritional deficiencies and promoting longevity.
C15 enhances metabolic health and protects cells from oxidative stress, making it vital for preventing age-related diseases and supporting overall well-being.
Deep dives
The Discovery of C15
C15, or pentadecanoic acid, is a newly recognized essential fatty acid that significantly impacts aging and overall health. Its discovery stemmed from research on aging dolphins, where higher levels of C15 correlated with better health outcomes compared to those with lower levels. This was a groundbreaking revelation, as it was identified amidst a large dataset of metabolites analyzed through advanced metabolomics technology. C15 is primarily sourced from specific types of fish and dairy fat, underlining the dietary importance of this fatty acid in promoting longevity.
C15 and Nutrition
C15 can be found in certain fatty fish like mullet and pinfish, and also in dairy fat, particularly from grass-fed cows, which contain higher levels compared to corn-fed cows. Interestingly, C15 is much lower in non-fat or low-fat dairy products, emphasizing the importance of consuming whole-fat options for adequate intake. Additionally, traditional diets that include whole fish contribute to C15 levels, suggesting a strong link between dietary habits and health outcomes. Understanding the dietary sources of C15 can aid in addressing nutritional deficiencies related to this vital fatty acid.
Mechanisms of Action
C15 is shown to activate critical longevity pathways, such as AMPK, and inhibits unwanted cellular processes like mTOR, promoting better metabolic health and mitochondrial function. Unlike metformin, which reduces energy production in cells, C15 enhances mitochondrial ATP production and cellular stability, presenting a more favorable approach to supporting energy metabolism. This molecule is pivotal in protecting cells from oxidative stress and is linked to averting conditions stemming from cellular fragility syndrome, which is caused by insufficient C15 levels. These actions suggest that C15 can be integral in preventing age-related diseases and enhancing overall well-being.
C15 as a Supplement
The bioavailability and safety of C15 have been confirmed through multiple studies, indicating a necessary dose of 200 milligrams per day for optimal benefits. Initial users often report improvements in skin health, sleep quality, and metabolic function within weeks of starting supplementation. Furthermore, it's been recognized for its potential to enhance mood and decrease anxiety through its effects on cannabinoid receptors, which may contribute to overall mental well-being. This makes C15 an appealing addition to daily health regimens focused on longevity and vitality.
The Broader Implications of C15 Research
Research around C15 signifies a broader shift in understanding essential fatty acids and their roles in human health, akin to historical discoveries regarding vitamins. Its identification as an essential nutrient highlights the importance of addressing nutritional deficiencies that may lead to health complications. The potential for C15 to improve metabolic and cardiovascular health opens new avenues for dietary interventions aimed at longevity. Overall, emphasizing C15 in dietary and supplemental contexts reflects a growing awareness of the interconnectedness of nutrition, aging, and disease prevention.
In this episode of The Human Upgrade, Dave Asprey is joined by Dr. Stephanie Venn-Watson, a veterinary epidemiologist and co-founder of Seraphina Therapeutics, to explore the groundbreaking discovery of C15, also known as Pentadecanoic acid. This episode uncovers how Dr. Venn-Watson's work with aging dolphins in the U.S. Navy led to the surprising revelation that C15 is an essential fatty acid, marking the first discovery of its kind in nearly a century. Through extensive research, C15 has shown powerful benefits for longevity, reducing inflammation, and promoting cellular health, which can help prevent chronic conditions like metabolic syndrome and heart disease.
Dr. Venn-Watson explains the science behind C15, its natural sources—such as grass-fed dairy and certain types of fish—and why it’s often missing from modern low-fat diets. She also dives into the clinical studies that reveal how C15 can stabilize cell membranes, reduce oxidative stress, and improve metabolic function. The episode emphasizes the importance of this ‘new’ fat for anyone seeking to optimize their health, whether through diet or supplementation.
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