New Drugs May Extend Human Lifespan

The article discusses recent research on the potential of two FDA-approved drugs, Rapamycin and Metformin, in extending human lifespan by mimicking dietary restrictions. The study conducted by scientists at the School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, builds upon historical findings suggesting that caloric restriction can increase the lifespan of select lab animals, particularly mice.

Key Findings

• Caloric Restriction Studies: Historically, studies on lab rats indicate that those that eat less live longer than their well-fed counterparts; however, such diets are challenging for humans to maintain over long periods.

• Drug Combination for Longevity: The recently researched combination of Rapamycin and Metformin may serve as an alternative to caloric restriction by simulating its biological effects.

• Rapamycin:

  • Originally discovered in the 1970s from soil bacteria on Easter Island.
  • Used as an immunosuppressant to prevent organ transplant rejection.
  • Works by blocking cellular signals related to nutrient abundance, thus potentially increasing lifespan.

• Metformin:

  • A synthetic antihyperglycemic agent derived from French Lilac or Goat’s Rue, commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetes.
  • Its impact on lifespan extension is less substantial compared to Rapamycin.

• Research Methodology: The scientists analyzed a vast number of studies, zeroing in on 167 pertinent studies across eight vertebrate species (including fish and monkeys) to assess the impact of both drugs on longevity.

• Effectiveness of Strategies:

  • The most reliable method to extend lifespan remains caloric restriction.
  • Rapamycin is identified as the second most effective strategy.
  • Metformin did not show significant effects in increasing lifespan within this research context.

• Variability in Results: The effects of Rapamycin were noted to be inconsistent across different studies, with instances where it or caloric restriction led to reduced lifespans in certain animal models.

• Human Trials: Current human trials involving Rapamycin are ongoing, exploring whether lower doses might enhance lifespan without significant side effects, such as immunosuppression.

Conclusion

The article concludes that while the combination of these drugs shows promise in mimicking the effects of dietary restrictions for longevity, the research is still in its infancy. Results from ongoing trials involving human subjects are awaited to determine the viability of using these drugs as an alternative to caloric restriction for lifespan extension.

Important Sentences

• "A combination of FDA-approved drugs that mimic the effects of dieting might be the answer to a longer life."
• "Rapamycin is known to extend the lifespan of mice by as much as 30 percent."
• "Scientists determined the most dependable way to increase lifespan is to eat less."
• "Rapamycin's effects on animals were inconsistent, with some studies showing it might reduce lifespan."
• "Ongoing trials on Rapamycin in humans suggest that lower doses may increase lifespan without significant side effects."