Breakthrough method reverses aging in human cells without modifying DNA

Scientists may have discovered a way to reverse aging in human cells without making any gene edits. In a recent breakthrough study, researchers developed six chemical cocktails that restored aged cells to a youthful state in under a week. 

Experts consider this a fast, safe, and cost-effective method for reversing the effects of aging. It could open doors to better treatments for age-related diseases and cellular decline.

The truth about aging

To understand the latest discovery on reversing aging, it is essential to look at what causes aging at the cellular level.

In complex organisms, the biological information is stored in two places, the genome and the epigenome. All cells in the body generally share the same genome.

On the other hand, the epigenome may vary from cell to cell and may also change in response to environmental alterations.

According to the Information Theory of Aging (ITOA), the loss of youthful epigenetic information is the primary factor contributing to aging, and age-related deterioration and dysfunction.

Cells that accumulate during aging

Additionally, studies support the notion that factors such as stress or DNA damage accelerate the aging process by causing a greater loss of epigenetic information.

This progressive loss can cause the cells to enter a state of dysfunction known as senescence.

Cellular senescence is an irreversible state of cell cycle arrest. Senescent cells stop dividing. They also release signaling molecules that promote cell repair.

So, to an extent, senescence is beneficial in wound healing and the prevention of cancer spread. 

As a result of aging, senescent cells accumulate in the body, contributing to the development of age-related diseases. The understanding of the aging process led scientists to seek ways to reverse these age-related changes in cells.

Chemical alternatives to reverse aging

Most current anti-aging approaches rely on gene therapy that alters genetic material. These methods aim to reverse the aging process, cure age-related disabilities or diseases, and heal injuries.

Scientists typically achieve this using techniques such as adeno-associated viral (AAV) delivery of DNA and lipid nanoparticle-mediated delivery of RNA. Due to the cost and safety concerns, these methods are not widely accepted.

Scientists searched for a chemical alternative that is safe, inexpensive, and yields results more quickly. The approach could perhaps lead to whole-body rejuvenation, not just to the reversal of aging in specific cells.

Chemical cocktails were highly effective

In this study, researchers developed and utilized screening methods, including the NCC (nucleocytoplasmic compartmentalization) assay. NCC distinguishes young, old, and aging or senescent cells.

They then identified new chemical combinations that could reverse cellular aging and rejuvenate the cells. This method was highly effective, since the treated cells regained youthful function and gene expression patterns within days.

The results confirm the possibility that aging can be reversed in human cells without altering cellular identity or the underlying genetic code. 

The study identified six specific chemical cocktails that could help restore a youthful DNA methylation profile.

A remarkable feature is that these compounds work at a fast rate and show results in under a week. Additionally, the cell’s original type and function are retained. 

Origin of the age-reversal idea

In 2006, Takahashi and Yamanaka demonstrated that four specific genes could be used to reprogram adult cells. These genes were OCT4, SOX2, KLF4, and c-MYC, collectively known as the OSKM genes.

The four specific genes, or Yamanaka factors, erase cellular identity. Scientists sought ways to reverse aging without inducing uncontrolled cell growth or tumor development.

The Belmonte lab undertook multiple approaches and found that they could achieve this using short bursts of OSKM or just OSK.

Later studies showed that scientists could turn adult cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). The iPSC is a type of stem cell that can be derived from various sources. Scientists achieve this by erasing the cellular identity of the adult cells.

These discoveries paved the way for developing safer, faster, and non-genetic methods that were chemically based.

Towards a youthful life

The chemical method for reversing aging is a promising discovery. We can now restore cellular health and delay age-related disabilities and diseases without using genetic modifications.

Dr. David A. Sinclair is a professor in the Department of Genetics at Harvard Medical School, and lead scientist on the project.

“Until recently, the best we could do was slow aging. New discoveries suggest we can now reverse it,” said Dr. Sinclair. “This process has previously required gene therapy, limiting its widespread use.”

The discovery opens new doors for the field of regenerative medicine. Researchers can use the chemical cocktails to restore lost tissue function.

The method could evolve as an excellent solution for treating degenerative diseases and extending the lifespan.

Unlike epigenetic reprogramming, the chemical method is convenient with fewer hurdles. With further trials, this could progress to a more practical age-reversal therapy.

The full study was published in PubMed.

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