Belangrijkste concepten
Targeting and eliminating senescent "zombie cells" can significantly extend lifespan and improve health in aged mice.
Samenvatting
The article discusses a new study from researchers at the University of Connecticut that explores the potential of targeting and eliminating senescent cells, also known as "zombie cells," to extend lifespan and healthspan in mice.
The researchers used genetic engineering to introduce a "suicide gene" into the mice's genome that could be activated to selectively kill p21-positive senescent cells. By administering a drug to activate this suicide gene once a month in older mice, the researchers were able to significantly extend the mice's lifespan by an average of 3 months, with the oldest treated mouse living to 43 months (roughly 130 human years).
The treated mice not only lived longer, but were also healthier, exhibiting improved physical function like faster walking speed and stronger grip strength compared to untreated mice of the same age. The researchers believe this approach of eliminating senescent cells could have therapeutic potential for age-related diseases like diabetes and Alzheimer's.
However, the article also notes potential downsides, as senescent cells play a protective role in preventing uncontrolled cell proliferation and cancer. The researchers are now testing drugs and immunotherapy approaches to target senescent cells, with the goal of human trials in the next 2-5 years.
The article also discusses other interventions that have been shown to extend lifespan, such as caloric restriction and maintaining strong social connections, highlighting that a combination of approaches may be needed to maximize healthy longevity.
Statistieken
Treated mice lived an average of 33 months, 3 months longer than untreated mice.
The oldest treated mouse lived to 43 months, roughly 130 human years.
Treated mice exhibited improved physical function, including faster walking speed and stronger grip strength, compared to untreated mice of the same age.
Citaten
"Aging is the most important risk factor for every disease that we deal with in adult human beings."
"If we could slow down aging just a little bit, we can push back the onset of disease."
"Senescent cells — or 'zombie cells' — secrete harmful substances that disrupt tissue functioning."