Abstract: Among others, the present invention provides novel methods for extending lifespan or improving healthspan in a mammal, which include administration to the mammal of a composition containing a therapeutically effective amount of ergothioneine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, acid, ester, analog or derivative thereof.

Abstract: Glutathione deficiencies and deficiencies in glutathione synthetase activity, and therapeutic methods for the treatment thereof.

Abstract: A formulation for and method of enhancing leptin secretion is disclosed. The method comprises contacting living cells with an inhibitor of the enzyme pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase (PDHK). The PDHK inhibitor causes the cells it contacts to increase leptin secretion. The increased levels of leptin provides a range of desired results including weight loss and the prevention of weight regain after weight loss resulting from dieting and/or exercise.

Abstract: Novel hypoglycemically active eremophilanolide sesquiterpenes which can be isolated from Psacalium spp., processes for obtaining the novel eremophilanolide sesquiterpenes and methods for their use as hypoglycemic agents, for example, in the treatment of diabetes are described. Further described is the use of epicacalone, cacalone, cacalol or dimaturin as hypoglycemic agents, for example, in the treatment of diabetes. In a preferred embodiment, the hypoglycemically active compounds are obtained from the roots of Psacalium decompositum. As agents for the treatment of diabetes, the hypoglycemically active compounds of the present inventions are useful for treating insulin-dependent (type I) and/or non-insulin-dependent (type II) diabetes.

Abstract: Novel terpenoid-type quinones which can be obtained from Pycnanthus spp., processes for obtaining the novel terpenoid-type quinones and methods for their use as hypoglycemic agents, for example, in the treatment of diabetes are described. In a preferred embodiment, the novel terpenoid-type quinones are obtained from the leaves and stems of Pycnanthus angolensis. As agents for the treatment of diabetes, the novel terpenoid quinones are useful for treating insulin-dependent (type I) and/or non-insulin-dependent (type II) diabetes.