The Story: New research suggests that the dramatic increases in human lifespan seen throughout much of the 20th century have plateaued, indicating a potential upper limit to longevity.
Why It Matters: This challenges the prevailing belief in indefinite lifespan extension and necessitates a shift in focus from radical life extension to longevity and geroscience—improving healthspan, not just lifespan.
The Story: A new study suggests that 14 "skinny genes," particularly PARGC1A, significantly influence weight loss in response to exercise, doubling weight loss outcomes compared to those without these genes.
Why It Matters: Lifestyle changes and exercise remain crucial for optimal outcomes, even with genetic advantages, the study reveals. Therefore, integrating genetic profiling into weight management plans may improve treatment efficacy and manage patient expectations.
The Story: The concept of longevity network states, or special economic zones designed to accelerate aging research and therapies, moves forward with the launch of Zelar City in Berlin. Between October 5th and November 17th, scientists, entrepreneurs, and forward-thinking individuals will co-live, work, and conduct studies that accelerate aging therapies under relaxed regulations to foster rapid biotech innovation and attract investment.
Why It Matters: Zelar City is another extension of the Zuzalu ecosystem – a radically new approach to medical research initiated by Vitalik Buterin, co-founder of the cryptocurrency Ethereum. The "longevity state" concept and its continuing growth could dramatically accelerate the development and approval of life-extending therapeutics, potentially impacting the global population and longevity industry as a whole.
Trending Podcast
“If you can get a great engine, which is the microbiome, and put the great fuel in, which is nutrition…Now you’ve got a high-performing vehicle.“
- Colleen Cutcliffe, PhD
In the latest episode of the Redefining Medicine podcast, our esteemed host, Erika Schwartz, MD, sits down with a revolutionary in microbiome science and study, Colleen Cutcliffe, PhD. Co-founder and CEO of Pendulum Therapeutics – a true pioneer in DTC probiotic formulations – and featured speaker at the upcoming LongevityFest 2024, Dr. Cutcliffe shares critical scientific insights based on 20+ years of expertise.
What you’ll hear about:
Dr. Cutcliffe’s journey from molecular biology to launching Pendulum
A key lesson she learned from her daughter’s experience with antibiotics
Specific strains of bacteria her company targets that other’s don’t, and why that’s the case
The incredible outcomes associated with precision probiotic supplementation
