Getting older is not the same thing as aging.
Getting older is inevitable. We can’t do anything about time marching on.
But what about aging?
It used to be that medical science thought of aging and getting older as occurring in roughly the same manner and at roughly the same pace.
But more recently, researchers are finding exciting new ways to extend lifespan, healthspan, and vitality.
So, what are scientists researching? Read on to find out.
#1. Pharmaceuticals with Life-Extending Benefits
Scientists are looking at several compounds that may slow aging at the cellular level. These include:
- Metformin—Originally developed to control type 2 diabetes, recent studies have linked metformin to reducing disease, extending lifespan, and extending healthspan…even among non-diabetics.
- Rapamycin—This immunosuppressant was originally developed for transplant patients, but more recent studies have shown that it has exciting potential for extending lifespan and healthspan.
- NAD—This coenzyme has an essential role to play when it comes to cellular metabolism. When supplemented, it may help to slow the aging process by improving metabolism, brain function, energy production, and more.
#2. Senolytics
As people age, some cells stop functioning properly. But they don’t actually die. Known as senescent cells or “zombie cells”, these damaged cells emit harmful substances that can cause systemic inflammation.
Senolytics are drugs that target and remove these cells. Early medical trials have linked the removal of senescent cells to better organ function and reduced disease risk. Researchers hope senolytics may eventually lead to treatments for conditions like arthritis and Alzheimer’s.
#3. Genetic Research
Genetic studies of long-lived people are leading to a better understanding of how genetics impact aging. In fact, researchers have identified specific genes that have been linked to longer lifespans. Understanding these genes could ultimately lead to new therapies that can extend life and enhance health.
In particular, gene editing tools may one day allow scientists to slow aging at the genetic level, which could revolutionize how aging is approached from a medical standpoint.
#4. Peptides
Peptides are short chains of amino acids that help cells to communicate with each other.
Some peptides, like collagen peptides, can support skin and joint health. Others, like thymosin beta-4, may slow the aging process by promoting tissue repair. And still others can improve metabolism, enhance immune system function, and more.
#5. Antibody Therapies
Antibodies help the immune system to target harmful cells and proteins. This is relevant to the science of aging because researchers are working to develop antibody therapies that can remove toxic proteins that tend to build up in people’s bodies as they age.
Current research is focused on experimental treatments that can clear out damaged cells, while restoring damaged tissue to a healthy state. These therapies could lead to breakthroughs in treating age-related diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
#6. Cellular Reprogramming
What if there was a “reset button” that could restore cells to a more youthful state? This kind of reset may become a reality in the future.
Ongoing studies suggest it may be possible to essentially reprogram older cells such that they revert to a more youthful state. While still experimental, this research is an exciting area within longevity science.
#7. Telomere Extension
The chromosomes that make up your DNA have protective caps on the ends of them called telomeres. These caps get shorter and shorter each time cells divide. This process, referred to as “replicative senescence”, is associated with aging and increased disease risk.
Early studies suggest that enzymes like telomerase may help to maintain and extend telomere length, which could slow the aging process and reduce the risk for developing age-related illnesses.
The Future is Bright for Longevity-Related Therapies
The breakthroughs described above have the potential for bringing us closer and closer to a future where we can control the rate at which aging occurs. The result will be longer, healthier lives.
For now, take good care of your body and take advantage of the treatments that are available now, like hormone replacement therapy.
Let Renew Youth be your trusted guide to the latest in healthy aging and longevity research. As new therapies become available, we’ll be here to make them available to you via our physician-supervised treatment programs. To start your journey to a healthier you, call us at 800-859-7511 or use our easy contact form to schedule your complimentary 30-minute consultation.