Researchers in Great Britain will test the curative properties of resveratrol in such areas as heart disease. The article in SAWF News talks about resveratrol as being the "magic ingredient" which may offer real hope as a cure for the diseases associated with ageing. It goes on to say that there has been activity with regard to the compound in India as well, as research there centers around SRT501 (another version of the compound) and its effects on diabetes.

This research is all based on the idea that a calorie-restricted diet may indeed be the driving force behind extending longevity. Further more, research has found that by reducing calories by perhaps 40% that the lifespan of yeast, rats and mice is extended by some 50%. Dr. David Sinclair of Harvard showed in the late 1990's that a single gene known as SIRT1 indeed controlled the ageing process. In addition, he showed that resveratrol does in fact activate this gene, which further explains the French Paradox. The French are know for eating a high calorie diet without the health related problems, and it is suggested that it is because they drink large amounts of red wine which contain the compound.

Sirtris Pharmaceuticals, a company based in Cambridge, Mass. and directed by Dr. Sinclair has shown that in mice, the adverse effects from a high calorie diet are reversible with the red wine extract. Sirtris has shown SRT501 to be effective in treating such diseases as diabetes. SRT501 being a more potent version of the compound.

Look for trials to begin in the UK very soon with 30 patients who have degenerative diseases.