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#333 ‒ Longevity roundtable — the science of aging, geroprotective molecules, lifestyle interventions, challenges in research, and more | Steven Austad, Matt Kaeberlein, Richard Miller

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January 27, 2025

TLDR: Host Peter convenes a roundtable discussion on gerovscience with experts Steven Austad, Richard Miller, and Matt Kaeberlein. Topics covered include healthspan vs lifespan, redefining healthspan, aging-focused medical research, interventions like rapamycin & senolytics, epigenetic changes in aging, geroscience funding challenges, & more.

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In this compelling episode of The Drive, host Peter Attia brings together three leading experts in the field of longevity science—Steven Austad, Richard Miller, and Matt Kaeberlein. The discussion centers on the intricate science of aging, exploring the potential benefits of geroprotective molecules, lifestyle interventions, and the challenges faced in aging research.

Key Concepts Explored

The Rising Public Interest in Longevity Science

  • The public's fascination with longevity has surged, attributed to both aging populations and advancements in technology.
  • Experts discuss the misconceptions surrounding longevity and the critical distinction between lifespan (the length of life) and healthspan (the length of healthy life).

Rethinking Healthspan and Lifespan

  • The episode emphasizes that improving healthspan should be as important as extending lifespan. Existing healthcare systems often focus on disease-specific treatments rather than holistic aging approaches.
  • The panel discusses the importance of shifting the narrative from merely living longer to living healthier.

The Science of Aging Interventions

  • Geroprotective Molecules: The podcast evaluates various interventions, including rapamycin and senolytics.
    • Rapamycin shows promise but requires further understanding of its mechanisms and effects on aging.
    • Senolytics are also explored; challenges in reproducibility and differing interpretations of results surface in the discussion.

The Role of Biomarkers in Aging Research

  • Discussion on the differences between biomarkers of aging and aging rate indicators.
    • Biomarkers can only indicate aging post facto, whereas aging rate indicators could assess ongoing biological aging processes.
    • The need to identify effective and quantifiable biomarkers that can inform future research and clinical applications is vital.

Geroprotective Potential of GLP-1 Agonists

  • The panel debates whether GLP-1 receptor agonists possess geroprotective qualities beyond their caloric restriction effects.
    • Current studies suggest a beneficial effect on metabolic health, but further evidence is needed to establish long-term geroprotective outcomes.

Challenges in Aging Research

  • The experts highlight substantial obstacles in funding and public perception of aging research.
    • Traditional funding models often favor disease-specific research, sidelining aging-focused studies that could lead to broader health improvements.
  • There’s a call for greater collaboration between different research areas like oncology, cardiology, and geroscience to unify efforts to tackle aging.

Funding and Future of Longevity Research

  • Insights into the challenge of securing NIH funding for aging-related studies are discussed.
    • The panelists emphasize the need for increased investment in aging research, pointing out that aging is the primary risk factor for many diseases.

Practical Applications and Takeaways

  • The episode concludes with a call to action for researchers and policymakers to prioritize aging-focused studies, urging a paradigm shift in how we view and react to aging.
  • For individuals, understanding the nuances of aging research can shape personal health strategies and lifestyle choices.

Conclusion

This roundtable discussion is an enlightening exploration of the complexities in longevity science, underscoring the importance of collaborative research efforts in tackling aging-related health issues. Tune in to gain valuable insights that could help inform both individual and collective approaches to healthier, longer living.

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