Scientists from the University of Auckland have discovered that a cancer drug called alpelisib may help extend lifespan—at least in mice. The researchers wanted to see whether this drug, which is currently used to treat certain cancers, could also slow down aging.
To test this, they conducted an experiment using two groups of healthy mice. One group was given a regular diet, while the other group received the same diet with added alpelisib. The treatment started when the mice reached middle age (around one year old) and continued for an extended period.
The results were surprising. The mice that received alpelisib lived about 10% longer than those that did not. On average, they lived for around three years. These mice also showed some signs of healthier aging, such as better coordination and physical strength in old age.
However, the researchers caution that the drug may not be suitable for humans as an anti-aging treatment. While it increased lifespan in mice, it also had some negative effects. For example, treated mice showed signs of lower bone mass, which could lead to fragile bones and a higher risk of fractures. Additionally, alpelisib is known to have side effects that could make long-term use risky.
The drug works by targeting an enzyme called PI 3-kinase, which plays a role in both cancer and aging. Scientists have been studying this enzyme for over 20 years, mainly in the hopes of finding new cancer treatments. This study suggests that drugs targeting PI 3-kinase could have other uses, including extending lifespan and improving metabolic health.
Despite the promising results, more research is needed before alpelisib—or similar drugs—could be considered safe for humans as an anti-aging treatment. Scientists need to better understand its long-term effects and potential risks before any recommendations can be made.
This study adds to a growing body of research on aging. Other recent studies have found that certain lifestyle and dietary choices can also impact lifespan.
For example, research suggests that animal protein may be better than plant protein for maintaining muscle strength as people age. Another study found that olive oil consumption could help people live longer, while vitamin D has been shown to lower the risk of autoimmune diseases.
Together, these findings highlight the importance of continued research into aging and disease prevention. While the search for a true anti-aging treatment continues, studies like this offer valuable insights into the biological processes that influence how we age and how we might improve human health and longevity in the future.
If you care about cancer, please read studies that low-carb diet could increase overall cancer risk, and new way to increase the longevity of cancer survivors.
For more information about cancer, please see recent studies about how to fight cancer with these anti-cancer superfoods, and results showing daily vitamin D3 supplementation may reduce cancer death risk.
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