'Our study shows that
aging may not have to proceed in one single direction'
In the future, we may
be able to treat aging itself, rather than just the diseases that come with it,
the Guardian
reports. “Our study shows that aging may not have to proceed in one single
direction," researcher Juan Carlos Izpisua Belmonte says. "With
careful modulation, aging might be reversed.” According to the New
York Times , the study—published Thursday in Cell—is science's first attempt at
combating aging by rejiggering the genome. In the study, researchers
genetically engineered mice to produce four proteins that revert cells back to
their embryonic state, the San Diego Union Tribune reports. They
then created an on/off switch for the proteins to keep cells from permanently
reverting to their embryonic state and becoming useless.
After six weeks of
treatment, mice genetically engineered to have the rapid-aging disease progeria
lived 30% longer. Mice without progeria had better functioning hearts,
pancreases, and muscles, as well as improved healing of wounds, following treatment.
Basically, they seemed younger. The study's results were described by outside
experts as "exciting" and "huge." While similar treatments
for humans are likely at least a decade away, researchers believe they could be
used to slow down the body's internal clock and control at least some aspects
of aging. They won't, however, "lead to immortality," says Izpisua
Belmonte (Meanwhile, optimistic women may live longer.)
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