Anti-Aging Drug Combination Causes Severe Brain Damage in Mice, Raising Concerns
Researchers at the University of Connecticut have discovered that a popular anti-aging drug combination, dasatinib and quercetin (D+Q), causes significant brain damage in mice. The study, published in PNAS, revealed that the drug damages myelin, the protective coating around nerve fibers, leading to potential issues such as numbness, pain, and cognitive difficulties. This damage was more pronounced in younger mice compared to older ones. The findings raise concerns about the use of D+Q in longevity research and off-label anti-aging therapies, as the drug is being explored for conditions like type II diabetes and Alzheimer's disease. The study also noted that the drug caused brain cells to revert to a less functional, immature state, which could provide insights into multiple sclerosis.