New Technique that Extends the Lifespan of Mice Could Also Apply to Humans

Could there be a way to extend a person's lifespan? Scientists have developed a method to extend the lifespan of mice by up to 35 percent, and are optimistic about the potential implications of the study for humans.

"Cellular senescence is a biological mechanism that functions as an 'emergency brake' used by damaged cells to stop dividing," said Jan van Duersen, one of the researchers, in a news release. "While halting cell division of these cells is important for cancer prevention, it has been theorized that once the 'emergency brake' has been pulled, these cells are no longer necessary."

The immune system "sweeps out" the senescent cells on a regular basis. However, over time this action becomes less efficient. Senescent cells produce factors that damage adjacent cells and cause chronic inflammation, which is closely associated with frailty and age-related diseases.

In this latest study, the researchers used a transgene that allowed for the drug-induced elimination of senescent cells from normal mice. Upon administration of a compound called AP20187, removal of senescent cells delayed the formation of tumors and reduced age-related deterioration of several organs. Median lifespan of treated mice was extended by 17 to 35 percent. The scientists also demonstrated a healthier appearance and a reduced amount of inflammation.

"Senescent cells that accumulate with aging are largely bad, do bad things to your organs and tissues, and therefore shorten your life but also the healthy phase of your life," said van Deursen. "And since you can eliminate the cells without negative side effects, it seems like therapies that will mimic our findings-or our genetic model that we use to eliminate the cells-like drugs or other compounds that can eliminate senescent cells would be useful for therapies against age-related disabilities or disabilities or diseases or conditions."

The findings are published in the journal Nature.

Related Articles

Seafood May Reduce Your Risk of Alzheimer's Disease: Here's Why

Attitude About Aging Directly Influences Health, Study Suggests

For more great science stories and general news, please visit our sister site, Headlines and Global News (HNGN).