A fascinating new study out of the University of Saskatchewan has scientists one step closer to understanding how we might slow down the aging process — and the discovery started with tiny worms.
Researchers found two specific genes in a type of worm called C. elegans that seem to play a major role in aging. When these genes were turned off, the worms began to age much faster than usual. What's exciting is that these same two genes also exist in humans.
Why Worms?
You might be wondering — why study worms? According to lead researcher Dr. Michael Wu, C. elegans are ideal for aging studies because their DNA is surprisingly similar to ours — about 40% of it, in fact. Plus, they have short lifespans, which means scientists can observe the effects of gene changes over time without waiting decades.
The Next Step: Finding a Way to Target These Genes
Now that the research team knows which genes are involved, they’re working on ways to control their activity. The idea is to find drugs — or even natural compounds — that can slow down aging by influencing how these genes behave.
But it’s not just about worms anymore. Wu and his team plan to move into testing on animals that are closer to humans, such as mice or rats. If they see the same positive effects there, it could open the door to similar treatments for humans.
Don’t Expect a Quick Fix
This kind of research takes time. Since rodents live 2 to 5 years, scientists will need years of testing just to understand how these gene-targeting compounds affect aging in mammals. Wu estimates that it could take at least a decade before we see any potential treatments for humans.
Still, the implications are huge. Since aging is a major risk factor for almost every chronic disease — from heart conditions to Alzheimer’s — better understanding how aging works could help us prevent or delay many of the illnesses that affect us later in life.
This isn’t about chasing immortality. It’s about learning how to age better, stay healthier longer, and improve quality of life as we get older. And it all started with a humble little worm.
Source: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/acel.13795
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