Sirtuins and the Search for Longevity

This chapter explores the role of sirtuins, a group of proteins associated with aging and longevity, and their decreasing activity due to declining NAD levels. It discusses the controversial efficacy of resveratrol in promoting lifespan extension and the scientific skepticism surrounding its benefits. The conversation further delves into the complexities of aging interventions and the need for a proactive approach in healthcare to better address aging-related issues.

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The Life-Extension Episode — Dr. Matt Kaeberlein on The Dog Aging Project, Rapamycin, Metformin, Spermidine, NAD+ Precursors, Urolithin A, Acarbose, and Much More | Brought to you by Levels real-time feedback on how diet impacts your health, Athletic Greens all-in-one nutritional supplement, and LMNT electrolyte supplement. More on all three below.

Dr. Matt Kaeberlein (@mkaeberlein) is a professor of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology at the University of Washington School of Medicine, with adjunct appointments in Genome Sciences and Oral Health Sciences. Dr. Kaeberlein’s research interests are focused on understanding biological mechanisms of aging in order to facilitate translational interventions that promote healthspan and improve quality of life for people and companion animals.

Dr. Kaeberlein is the founding director of the University of Washington Healthy Aging and Longevity Research Institute, the director of the NIH Nathan Shock Center of Excellence in the Basic Biology of Aging at the University of Washington, director of the Biological Mechanisms of Healthy Aging Training Program, and founder and co-director of the Dog Aging Project.

Please enjoy!

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[06:44] What is aging biology?

[08:43] How Matt pivoted from mathematics to biology.

[11:46] What is the Dog Aging Project?

[13:42] Understanding healthspan through Matt’s frozen shoulder ordeal.

[20:23] Rapamycin vs. sterile inflammation.

[23:07] Current thoughts about how the immune system changes as we age.

[29:11] Anti-aging uses for rapamycin (and potential risks/side effects).

[42:20] Rapamycin and the Dog Aging Project.

[45:30] Rapamycin vs. neurodegeneration.

[48:21] What studies tell us about rapamycin’s potential to increase lifespan.

[51:30] Rapamycin alternatives considered for the Dog Aging Project.