Harvard scientists took aged mice and made them young again. What was surprising is that they did not slow the aging process in the mice, but accomplished a totally unexpected outcome- they reversed it.
The researchers at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute were testing an experimental method in aged mice in order to see if their organs could be rejuvenated. The implications were that such a treatment could be applicable to humans and used to treat age related illnesses such as heart disease.
The researchers' methods focused on inhibiting the shortening of telomeres. When the mice were give enzymes that lengthened telomeres, all damaged tissues repaired themselves and functioning was restored to youthful levels.
But the catch is that lengthened telomeres increase cancer risk by allowing cells to grow out of control.
If researchers can control for the cancer risk, then perhaps an enzyme could be the key to an ageless future for everyone.