Researchers from The Scripps Research Institute
(TSRI), Mayo Clinic, and other institutions recently identified a new class of
drugs that slow the aging process.
During the study, the scientists targeted senescent cells in mice. The scientists were
challenged with identifying and targeting the senescent cells without damaging
surrounding cells. Through transcript
analysis, the researchers discovered that senescent cells, like cancer cells, have
an increased ability to resist apoptosis.
As a result, the researchers decided to use dasatinib
and quercetin to facilitate their
research. Cell culture testing showed that
while dasatinib was effective in eliminating senescent human fat cell
progenitors, quercetin was effective in eliminating senescent human endothelial
cells. The scientists concluded that a
combination of both drugs would be most effective in targeting and eliminating senescent
cells.
When testing how the drugs affected health and aging
in mice, the research team observed improved cardiovascular function among old
mice after a single dose of the drugs. The
team also observed that after a single dose, mice that had been exposed to
radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer exhibited an increased exercise
capacity. Periodic dosages of the drugs delayed
age-related symptoms, spine degeneration, and osteoporosis in mice who
exhibited accelerated aging. The
research team concluded that more testing must be performed before the combination of drugs can be used in
humans.
I think the research is fascinating and has the
potential to allow people to live healthier for a longer period of time. Many people would find this to be the new
fountain of youth.
