Scientists from the University of Auckland have made an intriguing discovery in the pursuit of longer life. A study has shown that a drug called alpelisib, originally developed to treat cancer, can extend the lifespan of healthy mice.
While the findings are promising, the researchers caution against drawing quick conclusions for human application.
In the study, middle-aged mice (about one year old) were fed either a regular diet or the same diet supplemented with alpelisib. The mice that received the drug lived around 10% longer, with their average lifespan increasing to approximately three years.
Beyond living longer, these mice also showed signs of better health in their later years, including improved coordination and physical strength.
However, the study also revealed potential downsides. Mice treated with alpelisib had lower bone density, a sign of aging. These mixed results suggest that while the drug may hold promise for extending life, it may come with trade-offs.
The researchers emphasized that their findings do not mean people should start using this drug to try to extend their lives, especially given the potential side effects.
The focus of the study was on an enzyme called PI 3-kinase, which alpelisib targets. For over 20 years, scientists have studied this enzyme because it plays a role in how cells grow and survive.
Many cancers involve overactive PI 3-kinase pathways, which is why drugs like alpelisib were developed. The new findings suggest that targeting this pathway might also influence aging and age-related conditions.
The researchers see this study as a step forward in understanding the biology of aging. It highlights mechanisms that could be key to developing treatments that not only extend lifespan but also improve health during aging.
While long-term use of alpelisib may not be safe, shorter treatments could potentially be useful for certain metabolic health conditions, and the team is exploring these possibilities further.
This research also underscores the broader value of studying drugs over the long term. What begins as a treatment for one condition, like cancer, can lead to unexpected applications in other areas, such as aging.
The discovery opens doors to further research on how PI 3-kinase and related pathways contribute to age-related diseases.
Although this work is focused on mice, it provides a foundation for future studies that could one day lead to breakthroughs in human aging and health.
The researchers, led by Dr. Chris Hedges, published their findings in Nature Aging. They hope their work will inspire continued exploration into treatments that enhance both lifespan and quality of life.
For more information about cancer, please see recent studies that plant-based diets may reduce risk of colorectal cancer in men, and Low-fat diet may help stop cancer growth.
For more information about cancer, please see recent studies about How to harness the power of anti-cancer foods and supplements and results showing that Empower your plate: cancer-fighting foods and recipes.
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