New Long-Lived Mouse Increases Prospects of Drugs to Treat Aging

Scientists have known for decades that taking in fewer calories can extend lifespan in some animals, and University College London (United Kingdom) researchers have manipulated mouse genes to suppress production of ribosomal S6 protein kinase 1(S6K1), thereby mimicking the effect of caloric restriction.   The genetic modification “led to increased life span and resistance to age-related pathologies, such as bone, immune, and motor dysfunction and loss of insulin sensitivity.”  Further, in female mice the gene alteration extended lifespan by 19%; female mice were also skinnier,, had stronger bones, were better protected against Type-2 diabetes, and possessed an enhanced immune system.   No adverse effects were observed in the genetically modified lab animals.    The team proposes that: “[T]herapeutic manipulation of S6K1 … could provide broad protection against diseases of aging.”