What's Happening?
A new study is being conducted to determine if a combination of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and anti-inflammatory medications can help fend off age-related diseases. The study involves healthy
older adults aged 65 to 80, who are participating in a regimen that includes HIIT, resistance training, and daily intake of spermidine supplements and a generic anti-inflammatory medication. Dr. Thomas Marron, leading the study at The Tisch Cancer Institute, explains that as people age, their immune systems shift towards chronic inflammation, which can lead to diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and dementia. The study aims to reduce this 'bad inflammation' and promote healthier aging. Participants like Robert Profusek, a lawyer in his 70s, are already experiencing benefits from the exercise regimen, which includes short bursts of cardio and resistance training.
Why It's Important?
The study is significant as it addresses the growing interest in anti-aging interventions and the potential to extend healthy life expectancy. With the number of centenarians in the U.S. expected to quadruple by mid-century, finding effective ways to maintain vitality in older age is crucial. The research could lead to new guidelines for aging populations, emphasizing the role of exercise and specific supplements in reducing inflammation and preventing age-related diseases. If successful, the study could influence public health policies and encourage the development of new treatments that focus on extending the quality of life rather than just lifespan.
What's Next?
The study is part of the XPRIZE Healthspan competition, which aims to develop interventions that can restore muscle, cognitive, and immune function by at least 10 years. If the preliminary results are promising, further research will follow. The researchers will analyze blood samples from participants to track changes in inflammation markers, using advanced proteomic analysis. The study's outcomes could pave the way for more comprehensive trials and potentially lead to new anti-aging therapies. The XPRIZE Foundation will announce 10 finalists this summer, who will share a $10 million prize and advance to the competition's finals.
