First-ever reverse-aging drug was just injected into a human

4 hours ago

A biotech startup, Life Biosciences, has administered the first human injection of a cellular reprogramming therapy aimed at reversing age-related diseases.
The injection targets glaucoma in the eye, marking a pivotal trial for epigenetic reprogramming, which seeks to make aging cells behave more youthfully.
Key figures like Jeff Bezos and Sam Altman, along with pharmaceutical companies, are investing heavily in this longevity science, previously tested only in animals.
Cellular reprogramming, pioneered by Shinya Yamanaka's Nobel-winning work, involves using proteins to rejuvenate cells without fully reverting them to stem cells.
Life Biosciences uses three of the four Yamanaka factors, omitting one linked to cancer, and controls the therapy with a doxycycline on/off switch for safety.
Potential applications extend beyond vision and muscle to systemic benefits, though risks include cancer and the technology is still in early stages.
The trial includes nearly 20 patients across U.S. clinics, focusing on eye diseases, with results expected over six months.

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