A team of researchers from the University of California San Diego has made a significant breakthrough in the field of ageing research. They have shown that it is possible to reprogram the cellular ageing process and increase the lifespan of yeast cells by over 80%. The team believes that their findings could pave the way for the design of synthetic gene circuits that could promote longevity in more complex organisms, including humans.
The research, published in the journal Science, focused on the genetic pathway involved in cellular ageing. Our bodies have mechanisms to shut down cells before they cause any harm due to the accumulation of toxic waste products generated by the chemical reactions within cells. The team used yeast cells as a model for the ageing process, as their natural genetic circuits cause them to commit to an age-associated state and age similarly to human cells.
The researchers created a new genetic circuit that allowed yeast cells to swap regularly between two ageing mechanisms, preventing them from ageing at the normal pace. These cells lived for 82% longer than those that were not tampered with. While the study was performed using a tiny, single-celled fungus that is used to make bread, the team is looking to replicate their research on different human cells types like stem cells and neurons.
This breakthrough comes at a time when many scientists believe that ageing is a disease that can be treated. The concept of turning back the clock is growing in popularity, with a growing number of high-profile people advocating for biohacking measures to lengthen their lifespan, including actress Brooke Burke, former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey, football legend Tom Brady, and tech tycoon Bryan Johnson.
Biohacking is an umbrella term that encompasses many techniques. For some, it could involve fasting, ice baths, or a rigorous supplement routine. For the more hardcore followers, especially those with deep pockets, it involves more invasive procedures, such as injecting modified DNA, using devices that alter brainwaves to get better sleep, and inserting microchips under the skin to store password information.
While it is not possible to live forever, scientists may be able to elongate humans’ lives. The research from UC San Diego represents a proof-of-concept that demonstrates the successful application of synthetic biology to reprogram the cellular ageing process. It may lay the foundation for designing synthetic gene circuits to promote longevity in more complex organisms.
The implications of this research are significant. If it is possible to reprogram the cellular ageing process, it could lead to the development of treatments for age-related diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and cancer. It could also have implications for healthcare systems and the way we view ageing in society.
However, it is important to note that this research is in its early stages, and there is still much work to be done before any treatments or therapies can be developed for humans. The team is looking to replicate their research on different human cell types, which will provide more insights into the ageing process in humans.
The study represents a significant breakthrough in ageing research. The team has shown that it is possible to reprogram the cellular ageing process and increase the lifespan of yeast cells by over 80%. While it is still early days, this research may lead to the development of treatments for age-related diseases and have implications for the way we view ageing in society.
