A group of researchers calling themselves “geroscientists” are promoting a new approach to healthier aging, which may end up extending our lives. By testing one or two substances that have already been studied in animals—and have shown initial promise in humans—they hope to find a drug that will slow down aging and keep more of us healthier longer.
The idea is that by targeting fundamental aging processes—instead of individual illnesses—it may be possible to delay, prevent or treat the major age-related chronic disorders as a group instead of one at a time. And this theory has already been FDA-approved.
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The geroscientists will first test metformin—a cheap, generic drug used for Type 2 diabetes—in a placebo-controlled trial involving 3,000 elderly people to see if it will delay the development or progression of a variety of age-related ailments, including heart disease, cancer and dementia. There is evidence suggesting that, in addition to diabetes, metformin protects against cardiovascular disease, cancer and possibly cognitive impairment—all fundamental processes of aging.
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But before trials can happen they will need to raise about $50 million to conduct the study for the five years they expect it will take to determine whether the concept has merit. If metformin doesn’t work, they say there are several other drugs in the pipeline that could also be tried.
Though very nascent, the concept of a single substance being effective against a range of ailments is very exciting. The researchers warn, though, not to buy into anything until the drugs have been adequately tested. Also, it’s important to note that taking a drug found to ward off age-related illnesses is not a license to abandon a healthy lifestyle—that would completely negate the benefit of a compound that slows aging.
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Curated article from:
NY Times
