New drug raises hopes for human ageing

A new drug has extended the lifespans of lab animals by nearly 25%, raising hopes it could slow human ageing. Treated mice, called "supermodel grannies," looked younger, were healthier, stronger, and had fewer cancers than untreated ones, reports Kazinform.

The drug targets interleukin-11, a protein that increases with age and contributes to inflammation and ageing. Researchers from Imperial College London and Duke-NUS Medical School tested the drug on mice, either by genetically engineering them or by giving it to older mice. Results showed a 20-25% increase in lifespan and better health indicators.

Prof Stuart Cook emphasised the strong data but cautioned against over-optimism, though he believes it's worth testing in humans. The drug is already in trials for lung fibrosis and seems safe. Other anti-aging drugs, like metformin and rapamycin, are also being studied.

While calorie restriction has shown similar benefits, Cook argues a drug would be more practical. Researchers hope this discovery will be relevant to human health, although it's unclear if it will work the same way in people and what side effects might occur. Prof Anissa Widjaja and other experts see potential but stress the need for further evidence and consideration of costs.