Unlocking Cats Longevity: Japanese Professor’s Breakthrough Revealed — 4 Insights of Veterinary Scientist

Indre Jasineviciute PhD, DVM
4 min readDec 18, 2023

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A friend shared a TikTok hinting at groundbreaking news — a medicine potentially doubling feline lifespan.

Meet Professor Toru Miyazaki of Tokyo University, key to unlocking a major puzzle in cat health. His discovery centers on apoptosis inhibitor of macrophage (AIM) , a protein found in various species’ blood. In 2016, he revealed AIM’s unique dysfunction in cats prone to kidney disease.

As a PhD in veterinary science, I explored this discovery, offering insights that could reshape our feline friends’ health and longevity.

Cracking the Code to Feline Longevity: The Kidney Connection Unveiled

Imagine your feline friend with a secret weapon — a protein called AIM forming a unique bond with IgM, 1000 times stronger in cats than mice, thanks to a special amino-acid cluster in feline AIM.

This unique interaction between AIM and IgM in cats, unlike in mice, has significant implications for their kidney health.

Understanding this difference sheds light on a crucial factor affecting cats’ vulnerability to kidney-related issues, potentially influencing their overall well-being.

This discovery reveals why cats may struggle to recover from kidney injuries compared to other animals.

Picture this — when mice were given cat-like AIM, they experienced a higher risk of kidney injury. However, introducing a synthetic version of AIM into these mice actually improved their kidney function and increased their chances of survival.This demonstrates the potential for developing new treatments that could significantly enhance the well-being and lifespan of our feline friends. This potential for new treatments could enhance feline well-being and lifespan, especially as cats often grapple with kidney issues.

In summary, the AIM-IgM interaction is crucial for cats’ susceptibility to kidney problems. Tweaking this interaction could lead to innovative treatments.

Essentially, this discovery not only deepens our understanding of feline health but also opens up possibilities for enhancing the lives of our beloved cats.

Surprising Truths: kidney issues aren’t the main culprits in the quest for a cat’s nine lives

Kidney issues concern cats but aren’t their sole longevity limit.

A study of 3,000 client-owned cats revealed nuanced factors affecting feline mortality, crucial for enhancing pets’ well-being. Understanding diverse causes provides insights for cat owners.

Cancer emerged as the most prevalent cause of death, showcasing broader health challenges. Dive into the findings, and you’ll discover renal abnormalities were widespread, yet surprisingly, not the primary culprit. Renal disease played a significant role in morbidity and mortality, contributing to health issues for these cats. The study emphasizes kidney problems are common, but attributing all feline mortality oversimplifies the intricate health landscape.

In summary, the study challenges the belief that kidney issues bear the entire weight of cat mortality. Feline health, a puzzle beyond kidneys, requires a well-rounded approach. While AIM protein’s superhero potential is cool, zooming out is crucial for informed feline health decisions.

Acknowledging feline health’s multifaceted nature allows a more comprehensive approach, leading to better-informed decisions.

Embarking on the Pursuit: Supporting the Breakthrough Trials for Feline Well-being

Transitioning from theory to practice, Professor Toru Miyazaki’s AIM-based drug undergoes real-world trials for cats with progressive kidney disease.

Despite COVID-19 hurdles, Japanese cat lovers’ support revitalizes the quest for a groundbreaking solution. Financial obstacles often hinder science, but devoted cat lovers inject this practical phase with crucial transformative support.

Miyazaki’s mission faced a temporary setback, yet donations and pharmaceutical support reignite innovation. Fueled by thousands, Miyazaki opts for independence, acknowledging community impact on pioneering research. The journey includes administering a prototype drug, launching a clinical trial for cats with progressive kidney disease — a crucial juncture in feline medicine. As we await trial results, patience and support shape feline kidney health. Beyond the breakthrough, this narrative highlights collective efforts in advancing treatments for our furry companions.

To sum up, Miyazaki’s odyssey, from challenges to renewed hope, showcases resilience driving feline medicine advancements. In navigating vital trials, recognizing the need for more information is crucial. Nonetheless, this journey promises a healthier future, fueled by community engagement.

Cat enthusiasts, your interest, support, and patience play a vital role in this groundbreaking clinical trial’s ongoing success.

Dispelling Medication Myths and Unveiling Renal Diets for Longevity

As online discussions buzz, awaiting clinical trial results, it’s crucial to discern misleading products and value veterinary guidance.

Caution is advised with “AIM30 Supplements.” They may not align with Prof. Miyazaki’s breakthrough treatment, differing from the expected injectable solution.

Distinguishing between supplements and potential breakthroughs is imperative for committed cat owners. Navigating cat kidney disease requires attention to nutrition and minerals; veterinary professionals offer tailored solutions. Clinical trials stress closely monitoring a cat’s nutrition, where renal diets significantly impact CKD longevity. Cats on renal diets, meeting daily energy needs, show stable nutrition and improved survival rates, emphasizing transformative dietary choices. The current focus is vigilant nutrition management, particularly during CKD, underscoring renal diets’ pivotal role.

In the pursuit of feline health, distinguishing between supplements and guided dietary choices is essential. Clinical evidence solidifies renal diets’ effectiveness, emphasizing informed dietary decisions under veterinary guidance. Amid ongoing discussions, the emphasis remains on proper nutrition, guided by professionals, crucial for cat health and longevity.

Amidst the online buzz, veterinary expertise and tailored nutrition are essential for safeguarding our feline companions’ well-being.

In conclusion, as we embark on this journey of feline well-being, our collective efforts, support, and informed decisions are the keys to unlocking a healthier and longer life for our beloved cats. Let’s continue to advocate for their well-being, guided by science, community support, and the invaluable expertise of veterinary professionals.

Photo by Kanashi

References:
https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/focus/en/features/z1304_00039.html

https://www.japan-spread.com/category/select/pid/8397/currency/TWD

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0195561616300419?via%3Dihub

https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0278199

https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/14522789#:~:text=Miyazaki%20discovered%20a%20protein%20called,prone%20to%20developing%20kidney%20disease.

https://iamaim.jp/en/report/
https://www.nature.com/articles/srep35251

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Indre Jasineviciute PhD, DVM
Indre Jasineviciute PhD, DVM

Written by Indre Jasineviciute PhD, DVM

Pioneering animal researcher enhancing animal well-being.

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