Ageing is an inevitable consequence of life, or is it? This article briefly explores several developments made in the science of longevity, which aims to prolong healthspan rather than lifespan.
A Brief Exploration of Developments in the Science of Anti-Ageing
Biotechnology | Lucas Tan
The Australian ageing researcher David Sinclair is a professor of genetics and co-director of the Paul F. Glenn Centre for Biology of Aging Research at Harvard Medical School. He mentioned in his 2019 book, Lifespan, that there is no biological law that we must age and that there isn’t an upward limit to our age [1]. While medical technology and treatments are advancing at an unprecedented rate, death is still an inevitable predicament we must face. Ageing is a “disease” that all individuals “suffer” from. The average worldwide life expectancy as of 2019 sits at 72.7 years. Developed countries such as New Zealand (81.7 years), Singapore (83.5 years), and Japan (84.4 years) already possess average life expectancies of approximately 150% of the worldwide average in 1960 (52.6 years) [2]. This article aims to briefly explore developments made in prolonging healthspan—a part of a person’s life in which they are generally healthy—rather than lifespan, as there would be little benefit of living for an extended period while being bound by machinery or drugs [3].
Exercise
It is no secret that exercise brings about significant health benefits regardless of age group. Regular physical exercise partially mitigates the impact of ageing on physiological functions and helps to sustain the functional capacity of older individuals. Multiple studies have indicated that maintaining a minimum level of exercise, in terms of both quantity and quality, reduces the risk of cardiovascular mortality, protects against certain types of cancer, decreases the likelihood of developing osteoporosis, and promotes longevity. Training programs should incorporate both aerobic and resistance exercises. Additionally, exercises that improve flexibility and balance should be included. While the benefits of exercise appear to be closely linked to the duration and intensity of training, further research is necessary to establish clearer guidelines, allowing the scientific community to provide more precise recommendations [4-5].
Despite the above and there being a sea of scientific literature that demonstrates the potential benefits of exercise in counteracting ageing, it has been found that undertaking excessive chronic endurance exercises may negatively impact cardiovascular health. If one’s objective is to reduce the chances of cardiovascular events and enhance life expectancy, a consistent routine of moderate physical activity may be sufficient [6].
Yamanaka Factors
The belief that cells follow a one-way path of differentiation during development was debunked by Takahashi and Yamanaka in 2006 [7]. Yamanaka factors or OSKM factors, including Oct3/4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc, have the ability to transform ordinary somatic cells into pluripotent induced pluripotent stem cells, resembling embryonic cells. However, this transformation was too drastic to be used for in vivo rejuvenation. Nevertheless, scientists have successfully achieved rejuvenation in mice by partially reprogramming cells through the temporary activation of Yamanaka factors [8-10].
Cellular reprogramming using Yamanaka factors has been garnering significant interest, likely due to its feasibility for intervention purposes. Remarkably, this process can lead to the reversal of several key molecular indicators of ageing, offering a promising approach to achieving rejuvenation [11]. Despite their potential, such a rejuvenation method may require extensive testing, and there are multiple regulatory barriers to overcome.
Calorie Restriction (CR)
Restricting calorie intake can extend the lifespan of various species and safeguard nonhuman primates from age-related ailments, as demonstrated in various studies [12]. The use of CR as an anti-ageing strategy holds promise, but it is essential to have a clear understanding of its definition and limitations before considering its application in humans [13]. CR continues to be an active and dynamic field of research, offering a promising avenue for promoting healthy ageing. However, there is still a wealth of knowledge yet to be acquired in this area, e.g. the longterm effects of calorie restriction in humans. In addition, it is essential to acknowledge that caution should be exercised when considering self-implementing CR without the guidance of healthcare professionals such as physicians, dieticians, or psychologists. This is especially important for older individuals, those with a low body mass index (BMI), individuals experiencing negative emotions, or those taking multiple prescriptions [14].
Resveratrol
Multiple studies have documented a diverse range of bioactivities associated with resveratrol, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular protective, anti-cancer, antidiabetic, anti-obesity, neuroprotective, and anti-ageing effects. The anti-ageing mechanisms attributed to resveratrol primarily involve mitigating oxidative stress, reducing inflammatory responses, enhancing mitochondrial function, and regulating apoptosis [15-19]. Resveratrol holds promise as an effective and safe compound for preventing and treating ageing and age-related diseases.
Concluding Words
The science of longevity has made significant strides in recent years, promising a future where human life expectancy can be extended and the ageing process can be mitigated. Through ground-breaking research and technological advancements, scientists have gained deeper insights into the biological mechanisms underlying ageing and have identified potential interventions to slow down or reverse its effects. Collaborative efforts across different disciplines and the involvement of various stakeholders, including researchers, policymakers, and healthcare professionals, will be crucial in translating these scientific discoveries into practical applications and ensuring their widespread accessibility. Ethical considerations surrounding longevity interventions and their societal implications also need to be carefully addressed.
Access to these interventions should be equitable, ensuring that the benefits of longevity science are accessible to people from all walks of life. Developments in our knowledge of the science of longevity offer a tantalising glimpse into a future where living longer, healthier lives become a reality. By continuing to push the boundaries of scientific knowledge, investing in research, and fostering collaboration, we can pave the way for a world where ageing is no longer seen as an inevitable decline but as a manageable process, unlocking the full potential of human life.
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Lucas is particularly interested in the intersection of medicine, techbio, and venture building. He is also intrigued by the applications of AI and LLMs in driving better health outcomes and longevity.