The fountain of youth is a metaphor used to refer to various things or practices that are assumed to be able to prolong life or slow down the aging process.
Researchers from Harvard University claim that they are closer to discovering the Fountain of Youth. In their study, published in the scientific journal Aging, the team of scientists identified six chemical compounds that can reverse the aging process in human and mouse skin cells. This breakthrough could open the door to affordable whole-body rejuvenation.
Molecular biologist Dr. David Sinclair, a co-author of the study, called the discovery a “breakthrough” and sees it as an opportunity to achieve “affordable whole-body rejuvenation.” He even suggested that human trials could begin within the next year. Such a prediction has caught the attention of prominent figures such as Ilon Musk, who asked with interest, “Okay, what exactly is it?”.
The team of scientists used high-throughput cellular assays to distinguish young cells from aging cells. They were able to quickly test thousands to millions of samples for biological activity and identify six chemical compounds that could restore gene profiles and change the transcriptome age of cells to a youthful state in as little as a week.
After testing these compounds on mice and human cells, the results showed rejuvenation effects for all six combinations. The researchers noted that the effects were comparable to the overall change seen after a year of regenerative treatment.
Dr. Sinclair said that this new discovery offers the potential to reverse aging with a single pill, from improving vision to effectively treating age-related diseases.
However, not all experts share the Harvard scientists’ enthusiasm. Biogerontologist Matt Kaberlein cautiously praised the study, noting that the innovative screening method could lead to significant discoveries. However, he also noted that the study was still in a preliminary stage, and the team of scientists had to test the effects in animal models and show improvements in age-related health or longevity before drawing final conclusions about the effects on biological aging.
Overall, the discovery by the Harvard scientists represents a significant breakthrough in the field of anti-aging. If the study is successfully pursued and the results are confirmed, it could lead to a revolution in rejuvenation and treatment of age-related diseases.
