Anti-aging medicine research
The drug works by inhibiting the interleukin-11 (IL-11) protein. This protein is linked to a variety of problems related to aging. It was inherited from fish around 450 million years ago. Chronic inflammation, tissue scarring, metabolic diseases, loss of muscle mass, and heart problems are all linked to IL-11. To evaluate the effectiveness of this drug, researchers conducted two key tests in a comprehensive study.
Extended life span
In the first study, after researchers removed IL-11 from rats, the rats’ lifespan increased by more than 20%. In the second study, an anti-IL-11 drug was immediately administered to the rats. This strategy extended their lifespan by an additional 25%. Treated rats lived an average of 155 weeks, compared with 120 weeks for untreated rats. The treated rats lived the same age as a 55-year-old human. Treated rats also showed significant improvements in their health, including reduced cancer risk, improved muscle function, improved eyesight and loss of gray hair.
As reported by the Daily Star, one of the study’s lead authors, Professor Stuart Cook of the UK Medical Research Council’s Institute of Medical Sciences (MRC LMS), is excited by the findings: He observed that not only did the treated rats have less cancer overall, but they also experienced less muscle loss, more strength, and improved overall health.
FAQ:
How does this drug affect mice?
The drug improved the health of rats, extending their lifespan by up to 25 percent and reducing symptoms of aging such as graying hair and muscle loss.
Who led the research into anti-aging drugs?
Professor Stuart Cook, from the Medical Research Council’s Institute of Medical Sciences (MRC LMS), lead author of the study, expressed excitement at the drug’s results.
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