Decoding the aging nexus: unravelling genetic networks and pharmacological strategies for lifespan extension and the methuselah paradox

Abstract

We are all interested in knowing- whether genes and drugs can increase our life-span. As per Bible, Methuselah's lifespan lasted for a total of 969 years. Recent research has identified the Methuselah gene, a specific DNA segment that holds the potential to promote robust and healthy aging. This discovery opens new avenues for the development of pharmaceutical interventions aimed at extending human lifespan. Aging, a complex process influenced by natural selection, has evolved over time, adapting to factors such as cellular senescence and genetic instability. Research on aging has extensively employed invertebrate models like cnidarians, worms, flies, and yeast. Utilizing genetic methodologies with these organisms has resulted in the identification of numerous aging genes. Remarkably, there is compelling evidence of evolutionary conservation within longevity pathways across diverse species, including mammals. In search of omic study, we would consider data from another set of experiments performed on Cnidarians and show that there has a great advanced on the `biology of aging’ in an indirect way. Cnidarians, like Turritopsis dohrnii, showcase "ontogeny reversal," reverting to earlier stages, thus achieving biological immortality through repeated rejuvenation after reproduction. Alternatively, compounds like resveratrol and rapamycin, have been identified as having the ability to decelerate aging in model organisms. However, as of now, only rapamycin has demonstrated an impact on longevity in experiments on mice. The opportunity to postpone human aging currently exists, whether through established groups of tiny molecules or numerous emerging alternatives. In this context, we explore the approaches to convert findings from age-related research into pharmaceuticals.