Live Long & Prosper: How science and research is helping us to live longer. (No guarantees on the prosper part.)
Things are moving quickly in the cutting-edge of longevity research, a field where the line between science and science fiction is getting blurred. We zero in on areas of research and study that aren’t just about adding years to life but infusing those years with vitality.
From the genetic wizardry behind longevity-linked genes like FOXO3 and SIRT6 to the DNA-altering prowess of CRISPR, the rejuvenating promises of stem cell therapy and the utterly terrifying prospect of a market in young blood plasma.
We also take a moment to appreciate the quieter realms of mindfulness and give a nod to the work of local longevity guru Greg Macpherson, who is hitting longevity at a cellular level.
The Grandfather of Genetic Research
While we have a hard time getting a light rail project to come in on time and on budget, the Human Genome Project was a spectacular display of human achievement that sequenced the 3 billion base pairs in human DNA and mapped the location of genes on human chromosomes. It began officially in 1990 and was completed in 2003 two years ahead of its original schedule. This has also gone onto pave the way for more genetic studies and for companies like Calico, a Google-backed venture, which is delving into the genetic basis of aging, employing cutting-edge technologies like CRISPR for potential anti-aging interventions.
Key genes like FOXO3 and SIRT6 have garnered particular attention for a number of reasons. FOXO3, for instance, is crucial in stress resistance and metabolic regulation, and its variants have been associated with exceptionally long life spans in human populations. Similarly, SIRT6 has a role in DNA repair and is instrumental in maintaining genomic stability and controlling cellular aging.
Scientists at the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI), part of the National Institutes of Health have also recently been looking at the potential insights from the genome sequencing of other species in further understanding of human longevity.
The future of genetic research in longevity lies in understanding the intricate network of genes involved in aging, and how environmental factors and lifestyle choices interact with our genetic makeup to influence lifespan.
Senolytic Drugs
Senescent cells accumulate with age and are implicated in many age-related diseases, hence the development of Senolytic drugs which aim to selectively clear these cells to improve healthspan and potentially lifespan.
The concept of senolytic drugs was pioneered by researchers like Drs. Jan van Deursen and Judith Campisi. Van Deursen’s landmark study in 2011 showed that the removal of senescent cells in mice delayed the onset of age-related disorders. Campisi’s research at the Buck Institute for Research on Aging has furthered our understanding of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), which contributes to the aging process.
Among the first senolytic agents identified were dasatinib and quercetin, initially used as a cancer treatment and a dietary supplement, respectively. Studies have shown that these drugs can effectively eliminate senescent cells in mice, improving their health and increasing their lifespan.
Unity Biotechnology, co-founded by van Deursen and Campisi, is one of the leading companies in this field, focusing on developing senolytic therapies for age-related diseases. Ongoing clinical trials aim to translate these findings into therapies for humans, with a focus on diseases like osteoarthritis and pulmonary fibrosis.
The future of senolytic drugs lies in their potential to treat a broad spectrum of age-related diseases, making them a cornerstone of regenerative medicine and gerontology.
CRISPR Gene Editing
It might sound like something out of Gattaca but the CRISPR-Cas9 system, a real life and revolutionary gene-editing technology that has opened new frontiers in longevity research.
The foundational components of the system were identified in the late 1980s and early 2000s, but the key breakthrough, recognising its potential for genome editing, came in 2012. This pivotal development was made by Jennifer Doudna and Emmanuelle Charpentier, whose work transformed CRISPR-Cas9 into a powerful and versatile tool for genetic manipulation.
Their groundbreaking paper, published in 2012, demonstrated how CRISPR-Cas9 could be used to cut DNA at specific locations, paving the way for precise genome editing. This innovation was a significant leap forward in genetic research and has since revolutionised the fields of molecular biology and genetics.
The development of CRISPR-Cas9 as a genome editing tool is considered one of the most important scientific advancements in recent years and earned Doudna and Charpentier the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2020.
One of the most notable applications of CRISPR in aging research is the possibility of editing genes directly linked to age-related diseases. For instance, CRISPR has been used to modify the APOE gene, associated with Alzheimer’s disease, in animal models.
Startups like Editas Medicine and CRISPR Therapeutics are at the forefront of translating CRISPR technology into therapies. Their work encompasses a range of applications, from treating inherited diseases to potentially delaying the effects of aging.
The future challenges in this area include ensuring the precision and safety of gene editing, as well as addressing ethical concerns. If these challenges can be overcome, it could revolutionize our approach to aging and longevity. In your face ChatGPT.
Epigenetics and Aging
Epigenetics involves changes in gene expression that don’t alter the DNA sequence but can be influenced by environmental factors and lifestyle choices. Epigenetic changes can have a significant impact on aging and longevity.
Researchers like Dr. Steve Horvath at UCLA have developed the “epigenetic clock,” a method to measure biological age based on DNA methylation patterns, which has profound implications for aging research.
Studies suggest that lifestyle interventions, such as diet, exercise, and stress management, can influence epigenetic markers and potentially reverse some aspects of aging. Epigenetic therapies are also being explored as potential treatments for age-related diseases.
The future of epigenetic research in aging is promising, offering insights into how environmental and lifestyle factors interact with our genes and providing potential pathways for anti-aging interventions.
Telomere Extension
Telomeres, the protective caps at the end of our chromosomes, are integral to understanding the aging process. Each time a cell divides, telomeres shorten, eventually leading to cell death or senescence. Extending the length of telomeres presents a fascinating avenue for anti-aging research.
A significant discovery was made by Elizabeth Blackburn, Carol Greider, and Jack Szostak, who won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2009 for their work on telomeres and telomerase. Their research showed that telomerase could rebuild telomeres, potentially extending the lifespan of cells.
However, this area is complex; overly long telomeres are associated with an increased risk of certain cancers. Therefore, research is focused on finding a balance that promotes healthy aging without increasing cancer risks. Companies like Telomere Diagnostics are working on telomere length testing, and others, like Sierra Sciences, are actively researching telomerase activators.
Future research aims to understand how telomere extension could be safely used to extend healthspan, the period of life spent in good health, free from the chronic diseases and disabilities of aging.
Caloric Restriction
The concept of caloric restriction (CR) as a means to extend lifespan might be a popular rabbit hole on YouTube if you happen to come across it but it is also one that has been extensively studied by proper researchers. The principle is based on reducing calorie intake without malnutrition. Research has shown that CR can delay the onset of age-related diseases in various species, including rodents and primates.
Notable researchers in this field include Dr. Roy Walford and Dr. Richard Weindruch, who conducted pioneering studies on CR in mice. The Comprehensive Assessment of Long-term Effects of Reducing Intake of Energy (CALERIE) trial, conducted by the National Institute on Aging, is one of the most significant human studies on CR, examining its effects on aging biomarkers.
Biotech companies like L-Nutra are developing nutritional programs mimicking the effects of CR, aiming to provide the benefits without the challenges of drastically reducing food intake.
The potential of CR to enhance healthspan and possibly lifespan continues to be a key area of gerontological research, with studies focusing on understanding its biological mechanisms and how it can be safely implemented in humans.
Metformin and Aging
Metformin, a widely prescribed drug for type 2 diabetes, has shown promising anti-aging properties. Research indicates that it may influence fundamental aging factors, impacting cell growth, inflammation, and cellular repair.
The Targeting Aging with Metformin (TAME) trial, led by Dr. Nir Barzilai, aims to evaluate the drug’s ability to delay age-related diseases. Preliminary studies suggest that Metformin can extend the lifespan of animals and improve healthspan.
Pharmaceutical companies like Novo Nordisk and Merck are also exploring the anti-aging potential of Metformin and similar compounds. The drug’s impact on age-related diseases like cardiovascular disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s is of particular interest.
The potential of Metformin to be repurposed as an anti-aging drug represents a significant shift in the treatment of age-related diseases, emphasising prevention and the extension of healthspan.
Rapamycin Research
Another drug with a side hustle is Rapamycin, initially developed as an immunosuppressant, it has now emerged as a potential anti-aging drug.
The drug works by inhibiting the mTOR pathway, which plays a critical role in regulating cell growth and metabolism. By modulating this pathway, Rapamycin may slow down the aging process in humans. Research so far has shown that it can extend the lifespan of yeast, worms, flies, and mice.
Notable researchers in this field include Dr. David Sabatini, who discovered the mTOR pathway, and Dr. Matt Kaeberlein, whose work focuses on the biology of aging.
Companies like Restorbio are conducting clinical trials to test the efficacy and safety of Rapamycin and its derivatives in aging and age-related diseases. The goal is to harness the drug’s anti-aging properties while minimising its immunosuppressive effects.
NAD+ Boosters
While its acronym might sound like a trendy underwear label, Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is a coenzyme vital for cellular energy production and DNA repair. NAD+ levels decline with age, and boosting these levels has been linked to anti-aging effects.
Researchers like Dr. Leonard Guarente and Dr. David Sinclair have been leading the study of NAD+ and its precursors, such as nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) and nicotinamide riboside (NR). Sinclair’s work at Harvard Medical School, in particular, has shown promising results in reversing age-related cellular damage by boosting NAD+ levels.
Companies like Elysium Health and ChromaDex are actively involved in developing and marketing NAD+ boosting supplements. ChromaDex’s NR supplement, Tru Niagen, is one of the most well-known products in this market.
Ongoing research aims to elucidate the full potential of NAD+ in aging and age-related diseases, including its ability to improve cellular health and longevity.
Stem Cell Therapy
Anyone with a passing interest in mid ‘90s US politics will recognise stem cell therapy as the centre of much political ethical wrangling. While the politics might have settled down there is no diminishing of the significant potential that stem cell therapy has for regenerative medicine and anti-aging treatments. Stem cells’ ability to differentiate into various cell types makes them key candidates for repairing and regenerating aging tissues.
Dr. Shinya Yamanaka’s groundbreaking work on induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), for which he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2012, has opened new avenues in this field. His discovery allows for the creation of pluripotent stem cells from adult cells, offering a potential source for tissue regeneration.
Companies like Celularity and Rejuvenate Bio are at the forefront of applying stem cell technologies for anti-aging therapies. These therapies aim to treat age-related diseases and improve overall healthspan by rejuvenating aged tissues.
Future research in stem cell therapy will focus on ensuring the safety and efficacy of these treatments, with the hope of unlocking their full potential in reversing the effects of aging and prolonging healthspan.
Antioxidant Research
Free radicals could be a really cool protagonist group from a fictional anime sci-fi series but in real life these pesky elements contribute to aging and various diseases. Roll in the antioxidant which help to neutralise these pesky radicals.
Scientists like Dr. Bruce Ames have been key in understanding the role of antioxidants in aging. Foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries, green leafy vegetables, and nuts, are recommended for their potential health benefits.
Pharmaceutical companies are also exploring the development of antioxidant supplements. For example, Resveratrol, a compound found in red wine, is being studied for its potential anti-aging properties.
The future of antioxidant research lies in understanding how these compounds can be effectively used to reduce oxidative stress and improve cellular health, potentially contributing to increased lifespan and better health in aging populations.
Cellular Science
Greg Macpherson, the founder of Science Research Wellness (SRW), is a New Zealand-based pharmacist, biotechnologist, and cellular health expert who has significantly contributed to the field of aging and longevity.
Macpherson’s work in the biotechnology sector has been primarily focused on the aging process at the cellular level. This pursuit led him to explore the nine scientific hallmarks of aging, as detailed in his book, “Harnessing the Nine Hallmarks of Aging: to live your healthiest life.” These hallmarks, first published in the Cell journal in 2013, include genomic instability, telomere attrition, epigenetic alterations, mitochondrial dysfunction, intercellular communication decline, stem cell fatigue, cellular senescence, loss of proteostasis, and nutrient sensing dysregulation.
SRW Laboratories, under his leadership, curates the latest biotechnology research to formulate products designed to address cellular aging. This includes the development of preventative formulas from natural sources based on the identified hallmarks of aging. Macpherson’s mission is to slow the aging process at a cellular level, potentially helping to delay the onset of diseases associated with advanced aging, such as Alzheimer’s and heart disease.
Intermittent Fasting
Another base of fodder for a YouTube rabbit hole if ever there was one, intermittent fasting (IF) has gained attention for its potential to improve healthspan and possibly lifespan. IF involves cycling between periods of eating and fasting, and research suggests it can lead to weight loss, improved metabolic health, and perhaps even increased longevity.
There are various methods, like the 16/8 method (fasting for 16 hours and eating during an 8-hour window) or the 5:2 method (eating normally for five days and significantly reducing calorie intake for two days).
Dr. Valter Longo, a leading researcher in this area, has extensively studied the effects of IF on aging and disease. His research indicates that IF can induce cellular repair processes and increase resistance to stress. Clinical studies, such as those conducted by the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), are exploring the effects of IF on various health markers and age-related diseases. There’s growing evidence that IF may positively influence gene expression, hormone levels, and inflammatory markers associated with aging.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
If you were a child of the ‘80s you might still recoil at the thought of a spoonful of cod-liver oil that your grandparents gave you before bed. It might have seemed like some sort of sadistic fishy torture but your grandparents were on the money. Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly found in fish oil, have been associated with numerous health benefits, including potential longevity-enhancing effects. They are known to reduce inflammation, a key factor in the aging process.
Research led by scientists like Dr. William S. Harris has shown that higher levels of omega-3s in the blood are associated with reduced rates of cellular aging. Studies have also indicated that omega-3s can improve heart health and cognitive function in older adults.
Companies like Nordic Naturals and Life Extension are prominent in the market for omega-3 supplements, focusing on delivering high-quality, research-backed products.
Ongoing research aims to understand the mechanisms by which omega-3s influence aging and to determine the optimal intake levels for health and longevity.
Exercise and Aging
You don’t need to be a rocket surgeon to know that regular physical activity is a key factor in promoting healthy aging, improving cardiovascular health, muscle strength, balance, and cognitive function but pioneering work by researchers such as Dr. Mark Tarnopolsky has shown that exercise can have profound effects on the molecular level, including improvements in mitochondrial function and reductions in oxidative stress, both of which are linked to aging.
Various types of exercise, from aerobic activities to strength training, have been studied for their effects on aging. The National Institute on Aging recommends regular physical activity as part of a healthy lifestyle for older adults.
Future research in this area is focused on understanding the optimal types and intensities of exercise for different age groups and how exercise can be used therapeutically to combat age-related decline.
Mediterranean Diet
The Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, and fish, has been linked to increased longevity and reduced risk of chronic diseases. Research shows it’s beneficial for heart health, cognitive function, and may even play a role in preventing cancer and diabetes.
Epidemiological studies, like those conducted by Dr. Ancel Keys in the Seven Countries Study, have provided compelling evidence supporting the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet. This diet is characterised by high consumption of plant-based foods, moderate intake of fish and poultry, and low intake of red meat and dairy.
Organisations like the American Heart Association and the Mayo Clinic advocate for the Mediterranean diet as a heart-healthy eating plan suggesting that its benefits are attributed to its rich content of antioxidants, healthy fats, and fibers, which collectively contribute to reduced inflammation and improved metabolic health.
AI and Personalised Medicine
There is of course the ongoing fear that humanity is on a course for self-destruction and irrelevance as AI surpasses us to become the smarter and more dominant species, but in the meantime AI is actually here to help. The integration of AI in healthcare is already revolutionising the field of longevity research. AI can analyse vast amounts of medical data, predict health risks, and personalized medicine.
Researchers and companies are using AI to identify biomarkers of aging, develop personalised dietary and lifestyle recommendations, and design targeted therapies. For example, Google’s DeepMind has made significant advancements in protein folding, which has implications for understanding age-related diseases.
AI-driven platforms like IBM Watson Health are being used to analyze medical data and assist in drug discovery and development. These technologies have the potential to accelerate the development of anti-aging therapies by identifying new targets and optimising treatment strategies.
The future of AI in longevity research lies in its ability to synthesize complex data and provide insights that can lead to more effective and personalised anti-aging interventions.
Regenerative Medicine
This particular branch of medicine might appeal to those DIY tinkerers who understand the joy of keeping an old appliance running with a few replacement parts along the way. This is a bit of a level up from a replacing a toaster part though. Regenerative medicine focuses on repairing, replacing, or regenerating human cells, tissues, or organs to restore normal function. This field holds significant promise for treating age-related damage and extending healthspan.
Key areas of regenerative medicine include stem cell therapy, tissue engineering, and the use of biologically active molecules to stimulate tissue regeneration. Researchers like Dr. Anthony Atala at the Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine are leading the way in developing techniques to grow tissues and organs in the lab.
Companies like Organovo are pioneering the use of 3D bioprinting to create functional human tissues for research and therapeutic applications. The ability to replace or regenerate damaged tissues could be a game-changer in the fight against aging.
Future advancements in regenerative medicine could potentially lead to the ability to rejuvenate or replace aged tissues, offering a novel approach to extending healthspan and combating age-related diseases.
Microbiome and Aging
These days it’s pretty trendy to be sipping on kombucha, or if you are on the leading edge of the hipster curve, kafir but there are probably thousands of tiny little reasons to be reaching for the fermented stuff also.
Probiotic and prebiotic drinks and supplements, aimed at promoting a healthy microbiome are tapping into the fact that gut microbiome, has a profound influence on health and aging. Research indicates that a diverse and balanced microbiome is associated with better health in older adults.
Pioneers in microbiome research, like Dr. Rob Knight from the University of California, San Diego, have shown how the microbiome influences everything from immunity to brain function. Changes in the gut microbiome have been linked to age-related diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and cardiovascular diseases.
Future research in the microbiome field is also focusing on how modifying the gut microbiome can prevent or mitigate age-related diseases and improve healthspan.
Blood Plasma Transfusions
Oh, this sounds like the subject of an ‘80s horror movie but blood plasma transfusions from young donors to older recipients have been explored as a potential anti-aging therapy. This concept is based on studies suggesting that certain factors in young blood can rejuvenate aging tissues and improve cognitive functions.
One of the pioneers in this field is Dr. Tony Wyss-Coray from Stanford University, whose research in mice has shown that transfusions of young blood can reverse some signs of aging in the brain. His work has led to the development of clinical trials testing the effects of young plasma on age-related diseases.
Companies like Ambrosia and Alkahest are conducting clinical trials to test the efficacy of young plasma transfusions in improving biomarkers of aging and treating age-related diseases. The focus is on identifying the specific components in young blood that confer these benefits.
The potential of blood plasma transfusions in anti-aging therapy is still being explored, with ongoing research aimed at understanding the mechanisms and ensuring safety and efficacy.
Environmental Factors
There wasn’t much that was pleasant about this time but during the COVID-19 lockdowns, major cities worldwide experienced a significant reduction in air pollution during which the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air reported a 40% reduction in PM2.5 levels in 26 cities across Europe, leading to an estimated 11,000 fewer deaths related to air pollution over a month.
Studies have shown that exposure to air pollution, for instance, can also accelerate cognitive decline and increase the risk of age-related diseases like Alzheimer’s. Researchers like Dr. Caleb Finch at the University of Southern California have been studying the effects of air pollution on brain aging.
Public health initiatives and policies are being developed to address these environmental factors. Efforts include reducing pollution, improving access to healthcare, and creating age-friendly communities.
Mindfulness and Stress Reduction
It’s pretty understood these days that long term and chronic stress is known to accelerate the aging process, affecting both physical and mental health. Practices like meditation, yoga, and tai chi have been shown to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, improve immune function, and enhance cognitive abilities but researchers like Dr. Elissa Epel from the University of California, San Francisco, have studied the effects of stress on cellular aging, particularly focusing on telomere length. Research led by Dr. Elissa Epel found that individuals who practiced meditation had significantly higher telomerase activity, an enzyme that helps maintain telomere length, compared to a control group. Longer telomeres are associated with fewer signs of aging at the cellular level.
So the next time you are meditating, just think of your telomeres. Actually don’t think of anything.
Sleep and Aging
It is really no new news that sleep is crucial for overall health but ongoing research has linked poor sleep quality and sleep disorders to a range of age-related health issues, including cognitive decline, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. Ironically, as we are aging and we need all the help we can get, the quality of our sleep tends to decline.
Dr. Matthew Walker, a professor of neuroscience and psychology, is one of the leading researchers in the field of sleep and aging. His work highlights the importance of deep, restorative sleep for brain health, particularly as it relates to memory consolidation and the clearance of brain toxins.
Studies have shown that improving sleep quality can have a positive impact on age-related health issues. For example, treating sleep apnea, a common disorder in older adults, can lead to better cardiovascular health.
Pharmaceutical companies and tech firms are increasingly interested in developing products to improve sleep, from medications to sleep-tracking devices. The focus is on enhancing the quality of sleep, as it’s becoming clear that good sleep is a pillar of healthy ageing.
It also helps to invest in a good bed and to actually get the proper-sized pillow to match your shoulder angles. This is actually a thing. A bit of unprompted love for one of our advertisers, sleepgallery.co.nz but they are the experts here so go and talk to them.
Hormesis and Longevity
Hormesis refers to the biological phenomenon where a low level of stress or damage can actually have beneficial effects on an organism, potentially leading to increased lifespan and healthspan. This concept is grounded in the idea that mild stress can stimulate cellular repair mechanisms, making cells more resilient to future stress.
Researchers like Dr. Mark P. Mattson have studied hormesis extensively, particularly in the context of fasting and exercise. For instance, intermittent fasting and vigorous exercise induce mild stress on cells, activating pathways that improve cellular health and resilience.
Studies have shown that hormetic stressors can upregulate protective enzymes and stress response pathways, such as the production of heat shock proteins and enhanced autophagy, the body’s cellular waste-recycling process.
The potential of hormesis in extending lifespan is being explored not only through lifestyle interventions like fasting and exercise but also via pharmacological means. For example, certain compounds like sulforaphane, found in cruciferous vegetables, have been studied for their hormetic effects.
Understanding and harnessing the mechanisms of hormesis could open up new avenues for promoting longevity and preventing age-related diseases.
Sirtuin Activation
Sirtuins are a family of proteins that have been linked to aging and longevity. They play key roles in cellular processes like DNA repair, inflammation reduction, and metabolism regulation.
Dr. David Sinclair, a professor at Harvard Medical School, is a prominent researcher in the field and his work has shown that activating sirtuins can mimic the effects of caloric restriction and extend lifespan in yeast and mice.
Research is focused on identifying compounds that can effectively activate sirtuins. Resveratrol, found in red wine, is one such compound that has been studied for its potential to activate sirtuins and mimic the effects of caloric restriction.
Pharmaceutical companies are exploring the development of sirtuin-activating compounds as potential anti-aging therapies. The goal is to harness the benefits of sirtuin activation to improve healthspan and possibly extend lifespan.