Human immortality within reach?

Keeping the effects of aging at bay

Since the beginning of human civilization, we have wanted to stay young forever. The Chinese are said to have discovered gunpowder while seeking a rejuvenating cure. The idea of immortality might seem utopian. However, research has succeeded in improving the life expectancy of mice, among others. We are not so far from the possibility of extending the human lifespan. However, there are still many unknowns.

Already, more and more biologists and physicians are advocating that aging be recognized as a disease. Because, according to them, pathologies such as Alzheimer's, cancers or heart problems all stem from old age. By attacking this process directly, we could increase life expectancy. But we still need to know what factors are at play.

There is nothing simple about our biological system. Nevertheless, some factors have been identified. Caloric restriction would have a significant effect on animal species in the laboratory. Yet, pharmaceutical supports would be needed since few humans would tolerate even a temporary reduction in eating accompanied by feelings of hunger. Another solution would be to eliminate "zombie cells", i.e. cells that can no longer divide and that spread harmful substances. Senolytics (drugs that target senescent cells that accumulate with age) would be able to eliminate them and trials are already underway. Could this lead to an anti-aging vaccine? Maybe, but it's not for the foreseeable future.

Healthy lifestyle habits added to these techniques could therefore allow for a longer life expectancy. But to how many years? 120, 130, 170 years? Many believe that exceeding 120 years of age will be difficult, but not everyone is ready to confirm this theory. Moreover, this lengthening will have to be accompanied by major changes in society in terms of services, retirement, etc. However, there is still time to think about it.

Length: 30 minutes