A new study conducted on cynomolgus monkeys has shown that metformin, a medication typically used to treat type 2 diabetes, may have anti-aging effects by slowing down aging in multiple organs, including the brain. Over a period of three-and-a-half years, monkeys treated with metformin exhibited reduced age-related decline, with some showing a regression in aging indicators equivalent to six years. While this study demonstrates promising anti-aging benefits, further research, including human trials, is necessary to fully explore the drug’s potential.
Metformin’s mechanism involves improving insulin sensitivity, reducing inflammation, and promoting cellular repair processes, which are all crucial factors in the aging process. The study, conducted by researchers from China and the U.S., administered metformin to cynomolgus monkeys and found that it can slow down aging across multiple organs, including the brain. This research, published in Cell, involved tissue sampling, brain imaging, and physical and cognitive tests to assess changes in biological age at the cellular level.
Studies involving metformin on rodents, flies, worms, and humans have shown signs of rejuvenation and a delay in the onset of age-related diseases. The researchers in this new study conducted a 40-month investigation with 36 monkeys to better understand metformin’s effects on biological aging in mammals. The team observed evidence of biological aging slowing in several organs, with the kidneys, lungs, and skin showing a reduction in age by up to 5.1 years. The use of machine learning models enabled a thorough evaluation of metformin’s systemic anti-aging effects.
The researchers noted a significant impact on brain aging, with all monkeys experiencing a reduction in age-related decline, and some exhibiting indicators resembling those of monkeys six years younger. Metformin also preserved brain structure and improved cognitive function, potentially due to its activation of Nrf2, a protein known for its anti-oxidative properties. While these findings are promising, the study’s limitations, such as focusing on a single gender and the absence of human trials, need to be addressed to confirm the results and understand potential side effects.
Medical professionals not involved in the research have expressed optimism about the potential of metformin to reduce aging and inflammation, which could aid in managing age-related diseases more efficiently. This research could hold significance as monkeys share similarities with humans in cellular function and metabolic health. If these findings translate to humans, metformin may delay age-related diseases, improve organ function, and enhance overall longevity. Clinical trials and long-term studies will be pivotal in determining metformin’s impact on human aging and its safe use as a longevity treatment.
The potential of metformin to reduce aging in various organs, including the brain, opens up new possibilities for understanding and potentially slowing down the aging process and reducing disease risk. Integrating metformin or similar drugs with healthy lifestyle choices could be a novel approach to promoting longevity and reducing age-related diseases. More research is necessary to determine if the effects observed in monkeys apply to humans and if metformin could be a safe and effective longevity treatment in the future.
