Scientists Now Think the Aging Process Is Reversible

A new form of gene therapy produced rejuvenating effects on mice, according to a new study published in Cell.
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This rejuvenating treatment given to mice was based on a technique used to revert adult cells back into powerful stem cells, similar to those in an embryo. These cells are known as "induced pluripotent stem cells" (iPS cells) and, just like regular stem cells, have the ability to multiply and turn into any cell type in the body. Though iPS cells have been tested and used previously, this latest study is the first to show that the same technique can be used to partially rewind the clock on cells—enough to make them younger but not enough to lose their specialized function.
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The testing involved intermittently switching on the same four genes that are used to turn skin cells into iPS cells. The mice were genetically engineered in such a way that the four genes could be switched on by a chemical that was put in the drinking water. After six weeks of treatment, the animals looked younger, had straight spines and better cardio health, healed quicker when injured and lived 30% longer.
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The scientists first tested the treatment with a genetic disorder called progeria - which is featured in the movie The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. Just like Benjamin Button, sufferers of progeria exhibit symptoms such as accelerated aging, DNA damage, organ dysfunction, and dramatically shortened lifespan.

"Our study shows that aging may not have to proceed in one single direction. With careful modulation, aging might be reversed," said Juan Carlos Izpisua Belmonte, who led the work at the Salk Institute in La Jolla, CA.

The findings also support the theory that aging is not simply the result of physical wear and tear, but rather a preprogrammed internal genetic time bomb that actively causes our bodies to enter a state of decline when it goes off. The mice also did not show signs of an increased cancer risk, suggesting that the treatment had successfully rewound the cells without turning them all the way back into stem cells. However, this potential for carcinogenic side effects means that the first humans to receive this treatment are likely to be those with serious genetic conditions, like progeria. "These chemicals could be administered in creams or injections to rejuvenate skin, muscles, or bones," explains Izpisua Belmonte.
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The scientists never claim that aging can be eliminated, bur rather that future treatments would be able to slow this internal clock. "We believe that this approach will not lead to immortality," says Izpisua Belmont. "There are probably still limits that we will face in terms of complete reversal of aging. Our focus is not only extension of lifespan, but most importantly health-span...We think these chemical approaches might be in human clinical trials in the next ten years."

I wonder if I can go and sit on their doorstep.

luv4u said:

now it'll be the 'foundation of youth'

KingBAD said:

luv4u said:

now it'll be the 'foundation of youth'

XxAxX said:

Inevitably the first years of treatments will be so costly only the very rich will be able to pay. I'm not sure death is the 'end' and I believe there may be some truth to the idea that it is 'better' than life, judging by the life after death documentaries I've watched. Then again maybe if humans lived 300 years or so we would learn to overcome our stupid. Of course overpopulation would then be an issue... Such an interesting possibility, extending our life spans....

so...

because of 'over population' those who save up to get such a treatment will be at a disadvantage.

those who are at their peak may see the prudancy of killin of the noobies and those who went to far.

the natural born young will see the threat of the faux young.

those that choose to live such long lives will lose their minds seein all they love die BUT then again

the very reason to wanna live so long is to out live erbody you know (that's the bottom line, fukkk all the other reasons given)... certain murders will be acceptable (like now) and more murders will be commited... suicides will increase and the mental capacity of the masses will have dropped below what it is now (meanin, these folks are mere puppets now, just think of how programmed they'll be to live in such a manner...

then add to this the "anybody can give birth now" technology, head transplants, genetic engineerin, and all the other conveniences that are available to tthe richest of the rich. (dude that just died had gone through nine (or seven) hearts... i'd be lucky to get one)...

any of these types of discoveries are not a part of a 'trickle down theory'....

KingBAD said:

XxAxX said:

Inevitably the first years of treatments will be so costly only the very rich will be able to pay. I'm not sure death is the 'end' and I believe there may be some truth to the idea that it is 'better' than life, judging by the life after death documentaries I've watched. Then again maybe if humans lived 300 years or so we would learn to overcome our stupid. Of course overpopulation would then be an issue... Such an interesting possibility, extending our life spans....

so...

because of 'over population' those who save up to get such a treatment will be at a disadvantage.

those who are at their peak may see the prudancy of killin of the noobies and those who went to far.

the natural born young will see the threat of the faux young.

those that choose to live such long lives will lose their minds seein all they love die BUT then again

the very reason to wanna live so long is to out live erbody you know (that's the bottom line, fukkk all the other reasons given)... certain murders will be acceptable (like now) and more murders will be commited... suicides will increase and the mental capacity of the masses will have dropped below what it is now (meanin, these folks are mere puppets now, just think of how programmed they'll be to live in such a manner...

then add to this the "anybody can give birth now" technology, head transplants, genetic engineerin, and all the other conveniences that are available to tthe richest of the rich. (dude that just died had gone through nine (or seven) hearts... i'd be lucky to get one)...

any of these types of discoveries are not a part of a 'trickle down theory'....

yep. a brave new world...