The modern pursuit of immortality, which gained momentum three decades ago, seeks to address aging. Despite billions spent on research, are we any closer to finding a cure? Is there truly a limit to human lifespan?

Three decades back, researchers uncovered a genetic anomaly that allowed a simple worm to live twice as long. This revelation, made public on December 2, 1993, sparked a renewed interest in human immortality, or at least in significantly extending our lifespan. This endeavor, supported by both serious scientists and visionary futurists, has seen an influx of investments aimed at creating treatments that could potentially prolong human life for years or even centuries—if not achieve true immortality.

As I delve into this ongoing search for the fountain of youth, I aim to answer a few pressing questions:

• Is it possible to cure aging?
• What is the maximum lifespan humans can achieve?
• What is the current state of longevity research?
• Why haven't we observed increased life spans yet?
• Would we genuinely desire to live forever?

Financial Investments in Aging Research

The realm of longevity science, often exaggerated and intertwined with fundamental studies on age-related conditions, has historically been backed by traditional universities, governmental grants, and pharmaceutical R&D budgets.

Recently, however, a wave of wealthy individuals has invested in small biotech firms focused on halting or even reversing the aging process of the human body and mind.

In 2020 alone, over $1 billion was poured into the top 50 startups dedicated to longevity. In 2021, Altos Labs, a newcomer, secured a staggering $3 billion, with some funds coming from Jeff Bezos. Numerous billionaires, including the co-founders of Google and PayPal, have committed substantial portions of their wealth to the quest for immortality.

With such large investments come even greater expectations. As Peter Thiel has remarked, “Death is not a natural part of life; that’s a misconception.”

While many scientists remain grounded, focusing on the prevention or slowing of diseases like cancer, arthritis, and dementia, the ultimate goal remains: to enhance both lifespan and healthspan.

Dr. John Cooke, who leads cardiovascular research at the Houston Methodist Research Institute, is at the forefront of longevity studies, particularly examining how telomere erosion affects aging. When I inquired about the progress made in the past 30 years, he responded, “We have advanced significantly. Our understanding of aging mechanisms will certainly pave the way for new therapies for age-related diseases soon.”

The timeline for these breakthroughs remains uncertain. However, research continues to yield incremental insights into aging and methods to outsmart evolution’s constraints on mortality. Cooke and his colleagues have successfully reversed several aging indicators in human cells, demonstrating the potential for practical application in treating age-related conditions.

Understanding the Decline in Life Expectancy

Aubrey de Grey, once regarded as the “prophet of immortality,” asserted nearly 20 years ago that surviving another 25 years would allow access to the medical breakthroughs necessary for living to 1,000 years. More recently, he suggested that the first person to reach a millennium is already alive.

Amid shifting ambitions, how can such longevity be feasible?

Optimistic proponents often claim that aging can be cured, effectively allowing individuals to remain at a specific age for an extended period or even revert to a healthier state. While this might evoke images of the fictional Benjamin Button, many researchers would settle for simply adding healthy years to the average lifespan.

Despite a century of advancements in health and medicine that have nearly doubled life expectancy since 1900, average lifespans in affluent countries have stagnated, with the United States experiencing a decline.

What many fail to recognize is that the significant increase in life expectancy over the last century is somewhat misleading. It primarily stems from improved overall longevity rather than extending individual lifespans. Historically, diseases such as tuberculosis caused high mortality rates, which modern medical advancements have significantly reduced.

Although these improvements have dramatically altered average life expectancy, they have lessened the impact on the maximum lifespan any individual might achieve.

In the latter half of the 20th century, as more people reached older ages, the health landscape evolved. With an aging population, chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer have become leading causes of death, overshadowing previously preventable infectious diseases.

Considering that many current causes of death in wealthy nations are linked to aging, it may take considerable time and effort to decipher the complexities of longevity, let alone achieve lifespans extending into the centuries.

While our understanding of aging has progressed, a crucial factor impacting longevity—healthy lifestyle choices—remains underutilized by many in developed countries.

Investigating the Mechanisms of Aging

Returning to the pivotal discovery from 1993: microbiologist Cynthia Kenyon and her team revealed a genetic mutation in the roundworm C. elegans that could double its lifespan by enhancing disease resistance. This finding spurred global research into the molecular mechanisms of aging across various species.

Optimism flourished regarding the potential for similar breakthroughs in humans. Researchers began exploring ways to slow, halt, or reverse aging in various organisms, including rodents and primates, and more recently, in humans.

Despite significant strides in the past 30 years, no universal solution has emerged. It is evident that aging cannot be addressed with a singular miracle drug or treatment.

“We are witnessing a renaissance in longevity research, with exciting advancements occurring daily,” stated Dr. Calen Ryan from Columbia University's Butler Aging Center. “These developments underscore the complexity of aging, indicating that addressing it will require a multifaceted approach.”

Aging occurs as cells and their internal mechanisms deteriorate or fail to function effectively. For optimal health, old cells must divide and generate new, healthy cells. This process involves duplicating chromosomes, which store the DNA essential for our existence.

However, each cell division shortens telomeres, the protective caps on chromosomes. When telomeres become too short, cells can no longer divide, leading to senescence, where they may still function at a reduced capacity but contribute to inflammation and disease.

The question of whether aging and death result from wear and tear or are evolutionarily programmed remains unresolved. The "programmed" aging theory suggests that genes prioritize early-life reproduction over longevity. Researchers focusing on wear-and-tear aim to engineer solutions to counteract our natural decline.

Researchers are exploring various methods to repair organs, cells, and their internal functions, identifying numerous "hallmarks of aging" that warrant investigation.

Some of the most impactful findings, however, don't necessitate groundbreaking drugs or technologies. Recent research by Ryan and colleagues revealed that merely reducing calorie intake by 25% could slow biological aging by 2% to 3%, reducing mortality risk by 10% to 15%.

This approach could significantly extend the lifespan and healthspan of many Americans if they embraced such dietary changes.

Living longer doesn’t solely depend on caloric restriction. Other health-promoting behaviors that many people overlook include:

• Nutritional Choices: Poor dietary habits contribute to rising rates of chronic diseases. Failing to consume fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious foods diminishes longevity prospects.
• Physical Activity: Engaging in moderate exercise—just 22 minutes a day—can enhance life expectancy and health outcomes. Even simple activities like brisk walking can significantly reduce heart failure risk.
• Quality Sleep: Adequate sleep is crucial for overall health, as it helps rejuvenate the body and mind while reducing stress levels.

If individuals could adopt these healthy habits, many would likely enjoy several additional years of life.

The Desire for a Miracle Solution

However, changing lifestyle habits can be challenging. Many unhealthy practices are deeply ingrained in our daily routines.

In the U.S. and the U.K., more than half of consumed calories come from highly processed foods. Approximately 76% of U.S. adults fail to meet recommended physical activity levels, and one-third do not get sufficient quality sleep. Stress and anxiety have become prevalent issues for many Americans.

This leads to a widespread desire for pills or quick fixes.

The allure of miracle drugs for longevity captures public attention, with promises of "anti-aging" solutions and the potential for immortality. However, substantial increases in lifespan will likely require a combination of scientific advancements and lifestyle improvements—many of which are already known but often neglected due to various barriers.

“While pharmacological solutions will undoubtedly gain prominence in anti-aging discussions, we must not overlook fundamental factors such as exercise, proper nutrition, and healthy relationships,” Ryan emphasized. “These foundational elements are vital for leading fulfilling, healthy lives.”

In the meantime, significant improvements in longevity could be achieved almost immediately if societal norms and inadequate healthcare systems did not hinder progress. A recent report from the Commonwealth Fund indicates that the U.S. spends far more per capita on healthcare than any other high-income nation, yet it faces numerous health challenges.

Despite its substantial healthcare expenditures, the U.S. healthcare system is not performing well in terms of disease prevention and overall health outcomes. It ranks lowest among wealthy nations in life expectancy, avoidable deaths, and maternal and infant mortality rates.

Can a single pill or multiple solutions reverse the trends of rising obesity, diabetes, and other chronic diseases, enabling longer, more fulfilling lives?

Aiming for Extreme Longevity

David Sinclair, a prominent Harvard scientist and vocal advocate for anti-aging research, remains optimistic about the potential for extending human lifespans. He has authored the book Lifespan: Why We Age—And Why We Don’t Have To and co-founded several biotech firms dedicated to this cause.

Sinclair asserts that through personal experimentation, he has biologically rejuvenated himself by a decade. While he has faced criticism for his approach and potential conflicts of interest, he remains hopeful about future breakthroughs in longevity science.

He claims that the first person to reach the age of 150 has already been born, citing advancements in research that could halt or reverse aging processes.

“Numerous compounds have been identified that slow aging in animals, and a few are being tested in humans,” Sinclair remarked. “This optimism suggests that someone capable of living to 150 is among us today.”

While such predictions may seem far-fetched, one must consider that a child born today has a lifetime of scientific progress ahead, potentially enabling extended longevity.

“Children born today will live into the 22nd Century, where age reversal may be achievable,” Sinclair stated.

Nonetheless, the belief that living to 150 or achieving immortality is within reach remains a stretch for many scientists.

Critics, including former Harvard Medical School dean Jeffrey Flier, caution against overhyping longevity research, emphasizing the need for rigorous testing before claims can be validated.

Sinclair contends that many of the predictions made in his book have already materialized, citing advancements in various fields, including pandemic preparedness and bio-monitoring technologies. He highlights the ongoing clinical trials aimed at slowing or reversing aging.

While some recent mouse studies have generated excitement, experts urge caution, emphasizing the need for replication and further exploration of the mechanisms involved in aging.

Dr. Cooke reminds us that although there have been remarkable advancements in the field, extensive research and human clinical trials are essential before any findings translate into tangible improvements in lifespan and healthspan.

The ongoing investigations into longevity also hold promise for developing treatments for debilitating diseases. If billionaire investments and academic research lead to breakthroughs that improve health outcomes, many may be able to enjoy longer, healthier lives.

Consider the rare genetic disorder progeria, which accelerates aging in children. Scientists are investigating ways to correct the mutation causing this condition. Cooke's research team has focused on telomere shortening in progeria patients, employing RNA therapeutics to enhance telomerase production and potentially reverse some age-related issues.

“We all experience telomere erosion, and the accelerated aging seen in these children mirrors what occurs in the general population,” Cooke explained. “Our research shows that lengthening telomeres can alleviate many aging-related problems.”

However, achieving a future where all human ailments are eradicated, allowing for extended lifespans without significant decline in health, remains a monumental challenge.

Thirty years after the groundbreaking study on worms, the journey to significant breakthroughs in aging research continues.

The Probability of Death

Ultimately, the extent to which human lifespans can be elongated hinges on a key unknown: whether a natural limit exists for human longevity or if a “mortality plateau” allows for indefinite aging.

The latter hypothesis is supported by the Gompertz law of mortality, which suggests that the probability of death doubles approximately every eight years throughout adulthood.

While this principle has evolved alongside improvements in life expectancy, it still holds true for many countries. Notably, reaching age 80 may signify a shift, as the risk of death each year stabilizes significantly.

If a mortality plateau exists, it could imply that there is no cap on human lifespan, as noted by demographer Jean-Marie Robine.

Nonetheless, the longest documented human life belongs to Jeanne Calment, who passed away at age 122 in 1997. In industrialized nations, only a small fraction of individuals reach the age of 100 or beyond, and even fewer surpass 110.

Research indicates that while extraordinary ages like 150 or even 200 may be theoretically possible in the distant future, they are highly improbable.

The Anxiety of an Endless Existence

Regardless of scientific advancements, contemplating the emotional, social, and economic repercussions of significantly longer human lives—let alone immortality—raises numerous questions.

Would we become bored? Would stress and anxiety be exacerbated? Would we prioritize leisure over meaningful pursuits? Would societal structures adapt to accommodate longer lives? Would we consider halting procreation to manage population growth? How would relationships evolve?

In a non-scientific poll I conducted, I asked participants if they would desire to live forever. The responses were thought-provoking:

“The inevitability of death makes life meaningful.” — Henry

“Would we need to extend working years to support those not contributing?” — Marianne

“What if prejudices persisted indefinitely?” — Avram

“At what age would we find ourselves living forever?” — Pablo

Sinclair posits a different perspective, suggesting that longer, healthier lives would benefit the economy. He estimates that extending lifespans could add trillions in value to the U.S. economy.

Final Thoughts: Death Remains Inevitable

While the prospect of rejuvenation may seem appealing, complete immortality is unlikely to materialize in the near future.

Sinclair acknowledges this reality: “I don’t foresee immortality within the next few thousand years. We all will eventually die.” He emphasizes the importance of focusing on extending youth rather than merely prolonging old age.

In conclusion, the quest for anti-aging solutions can perpetuate ageism and fear of aging, leading to unproductive behaviors and unnecessary expenditures on dubious treatments.

“Human death is inevitable,” asserts Fernando Colchero, a statistics professor. “No amount of health interventions can prevent aging and death.”

However, there’s hope that medical advancements may slow the aging process in ways evolution couldn’t achieve.

Dr. Cooke believes that while centuries of life may be unrealistic, a multi-faceted approach could extend healthy lifespans by decades.

As we navigate our lives, embracing healthy habits offers the best chance for longevity while we still have time.