Scientists could have worked out how to increase lifespans by 80 per cent.
Scientists could have found out how to increase lifespans by 80 per cent
Experts from the University of California San Diego have, for the first time, shown that it is possible to rewire the genetic pathway involved in cellular ageing.
The team were able to increase the lifespan of yeast cells by over 80 per cent and believe that there is no reason why the same feat could not be accomplished with human cells.
The findings come amid growing belief amongst scientists that ageing is simply a disease that is able to be treated.
The researchers wrote: "Our work represents a proof-of-concept, demonstrating the successful application of synthetic biology to reprogramme the cellular ageing process and may lay the foundation for designing synthetic gene circuits to effectively promote longevity in the more complex organisms."
While it would not be possible to live forever, boffins could be able to elongate the lives of human beings.