American biologist Valter Longo of the University of Southern California and a group of researchers headed by him were able to extend the life of yeast cells tenfold, which is a new record. Previously managed to increase the life of cells only twice. To achieve this, the researchers used a combination of two methods: they are "turned off" certain genes in the cells and put the latter on a low-calorie diet. According to Longo, the same methods can be increased lifespan in humans. However, in order not to observed negative consequences of such a step, turn off the genes needed to produce only in adulthood, after the full development of the organism.
Currently the group is studying several Ecuadorians who have similar natural mutation in the same gene. The researchers hope that these people will recover, and demonstrate fair longevity. Though the prospect of increasing the life of a man several times while vague, yet it is worth considering what will happen to humanity if it does manage to do.
Some scholars believed it can lead to the degradation of our civilization.
No comments:
Post a Comment