August 14, 2024 from Medscape
Scientists at the University of Connecticut are exploring a groundbreaking approach to slowing aging by eliminating senescent cells, also known as “zombie cells.” These cells, which accumulate with age, secrete harmful substances that contribute to chronic inflammation, tissue damage, and age-related diseases.
A new study, published in Cell Metabolism, found that removing a specific type of senescent cell, called p21high cells, significantly extended the lifespan and health of aging mice. Researchers hope that similar treatments could be ready for human trials within 2-5 years.
How Scientists Extended Lifespan in Mice
Lead researcher Ming Xu, PhD, and his team used genetic engineering to introduce a “suicide gene” into mice. When given a low dose of tamoxifen, the gene was activated, eliminating p21high cells once a month.
Key Findings:
- Treated mice lived three months longer on average than untreated mice, which is roughly 10 extra human years.
- The oldest treated mouse lived to 43 months, the equivalent of 130 human years.
- The treated mice were healthier, stronger, and more mobile, with improved walking speed and grip strength—two markers of vitality in humans.
- The treatment reduced inflammation and decreased gene activity linked to aging.
Could This Lead to an Anti-Aging Breakthrough?
Xu’s lab is now testing drugs that target p21high cells, hoping to develop a treatment that could work in humans. Researchers also plan to investigate whether eliminating these cells could prevent or slow down diseases like diabetes and Alzheimer’s.
However, some experts caution that eliminating senescent cells could have unintended consequences. Dr. Douglas Vaughan, a cardiologist and longevity expert at Northwestern University, warns that senescent cells help prevent malignant growths—removing them could increase cancer risk in some cases.
Extending Lifespan Without Drugs
While scientific breakthroughs are exciting, simple lifestyle changes already provide proven ways to promote longevity. Caloric restriction, regular exercise, and strong social connections have all been linked to longer, healthier lives. Vaughan’s research on “super agers”—people who remain cognitively sharp into their 90s—suggests that maintaining a strong social network is one of the biggest predictors of healthy aging.
The Future of Anti-Aging Research
Xu’s research marks a major step forward in longevity science, with the potential to redefine how we treat aging-related diseases. However, much more research is needed before these findings can be applied to humans. In the meantime, a healthy lifestyle remains our best tool for extending lifespan and improving quality of life.
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