1. Companies are pouring in their resources into anti-aging research. Major companies are investing heavily in anti-aging research with the aim of devising interventions to slow down the aging process. Some of these companies are AgeX, a subsidiary of BioTime, Calico, AbbVie Inc., Unity Biotechnology, Samumed, Human Longevity Inc., RestorBio, Rejuvenate Bio, and Juvenescence, among others. 2. The majority of clinical applications will not be happening soon. However, despite the mad rush to develop potentially beneficial interventions, majority of these applications will require years of clinical trials before they can be made available to the populace. 3. There are very few medical interventions that are proven to slow the aging process available today. Because there is a huge marketplace out there, there are companies with claims of stem cell products that will extend your life. However, it is important to understand that they are likely not based on pluripotent stem cell technology or are products which are not approved by the FDA. 4. Ethical issues still hounds this new science. Could genetic engineering be used one day to program longer lifespans by modifying or reprogramming human embryos? Despite advances in technologies, people should take note that there remain major ethical issues regarding interventions aimed to prolong life. Dr. Michael West said that while it is entirely possible to engineer babies, but when you make modifications, it is an experiment, and you put a human life at risk. 5. Interventions in human aging face major cultural challenge. While aging affects all people of all races, we humans have adapted to the fact that death is part and the end of life, which people generally see as inevitable. This precept is anchored on different belief systems based on one’s culture and traditions. 6. Healthy children born today could enjoy a lifespan never before seen in human history. It is highly possible that in the foreseeable future, people will live up to at least 150 years of age. And as more advances and powerful therapies are designed and developed, the prospect of people enjoying longer and healthier lifespan is highly possible.
Photos by Khiem Nguyen 18 • HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
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