Revolutionizing Anti - Ageing Therapies through Interleukin 11
The discovery of a groundbreaking treatment that could potentially extend lifespan by 25 years has sparked excitement in the scientific community . Researchers in London have identified a protein called interleukin-11 ( IL-11 ) as a key player in the ageing process .
Scientists at the Medical Research Council Laboratory of Medical Science and Imperial College London found a way to increase the lifespan of laboratory mice by 25 years by deactivating IL-11
. This treatment not only extended the healthy lifespan of mice but also reduced cancer - related deaths and decreased the prevalence of age - related diseases.
In a fascinating turn of events , IL-11 , a protein that promotes inflammation , has emerged as a potential protagonist in the quest for a longer , healthier life . Blocking IL-11 in middle - aged mice resulted in a 25 % increase in lifespan , reduced frailty , and improved metabolism .
The findings of a study on the effects of blocking IL-11 in mice were reported in Nature
. Although the study was conducted on mice , IL-11 also exists in humans , and drug candidates targeting IL-11 are already undergoing human trials for conditions such as cancer and fibrosis.
The accidental discovery of the link between IL-11 and ageing has opened up new possibilities in anti - ageing research . By deleting the gene responsible for producing IL-11 in mice , researchers observed improved health spans and increased lifespans .
The results were consistent across various tests conducted on tissues from young and old mice , highlighting the role of IL-11 in the ageing process
. Further studies involving the use of IL-11 antibodies in older mice have shown promising results , paving the way for potential clinical applications.
Moving forward , researchers are optimistic about the potential of IL-11 as a therapeutic target in anti - ageing interventions .
The clear path to testing IL-11 in humans sets it apart from other proteins and rejuvenation interventions
that have shown promise in animal models but faced challenges in clinical translation . With ongoing clinical trials investigating the effects of IL-11 - blocking drugs on cancer and fibrosis patients , the possibility of extending lifespan and improving healthspan in humans is within reach.
While the road to harnessing the full potential of IL-11 in combating ageing may be challenging , researchers are hopeful that focusing on specific age - related conditions could yield quicker and more targeted results .
The complexity of ageing and the numerous therapeutic possibilities underscore the need for further research and a deeper understanding of the biology behind the ageing process
. As the scientific community continues to unravel the mysteries of ageing , IL-11 emerges as a promising candidate in revolutionizing anti - ageing therapies.
Business
