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Researchers from Harvard and MIT have identified six chemical compounds that can reverse key signs of ageing in cells, according to a peer-reviewed research paper published in the journal Aging.

The findings come during a time when numerous billionaire-backed research studies are underway into longevity. Longevity seems to be the one thing the super-rich can’t buy, yet.

That may change as the “chemical cocktails” were found to restore youthful properties to cells after just four days of treatment.

According to the lead author, Dr. David Sinclair of Harvard Medical School, up to now science has had some progress with slowing ageing, but the discovery seems to be able to actually reverse the process. Well, at least theoretically.

The researchers are now preparing to begin human trials of its “age reversal gene therapy.”

To identify these magic chemicals, the Harvard team screened molecules with known impacts on cells with ‘ageing markers’. Using their impressive intellect and billionaire funds, the scientists eventually found six compounds, that if used together, actually return cells to a younger state.

Unlike other ‘gene therapies’, these compounds don’t alter DNA, but rather reprogram cells into ‘immature stem cells capable of transforming into any tissue’. As per usual, monkeys and mice were used as the test subjects first, and have shown ‘encouraging results’.

“Ageing reversal can be achieved, not only by genetic means, but also chemical.”

Tech billionaires have been throwing money at these types of studies for almost a decade now, with Sam Altman, CEO of AI firm OpenAI, recently investing $180 million into stealth startup Retro Biosciences. The company hopes to be able to add a decade to the human lifespan by the end of 2030.

Studies on the optic nerve, brain tissue, kidney, and muscle have shown promising results, with improved vision and extended lifespan in mice and, recently, in April of this year, improved vision in monkeys 8/17 https://t.co/BNPvudpdWR

— David Sinclair (@davidasinclair) July 12, 2023

Other supporters of this kind of meddling with nature include NewLimit, funded by $250 million from Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong.

This kind of research will likely result in a lot of fringe benefits, but if we look at the affordability of healthcare for the average guy, we have to wonder who will benefit the most.

Does the world really need another two hundred years of Mark Zuckerberg and the Kardashians?

[source:decrypt]