Dhaka, Oct. 31 -- Muscle tissues and an organic compound called BH2 play a vital role in cold-temperature longevity benefits, according to a University of Cologne study published in Nature.

Research on C elegans worms showed that mild cold prompts muscle tissue to synthesise and release BH2 (dihydrobiopterin). The compound spreads throughout the body to preserve cellular protein balance during ageing, reports The Independent.

Tests on human cell models of Huntington's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) yielded similar protective results. Both age-related conditions involve the accumulation of misfolded or damaged proteins.

Study author Dr David Vilchez noted that targeting a single tissue like muscle could provide organism...