Liz Parrish discusses the progress of gene therapies in extending healthy life and eradicating diseases, emphasizing the importance of targeting biological aging. The podcast explores current advancements in gene therapy, such as myostatin inhibitors, and their potential to enhance athletic performance. It also delves into the possibilities and implications of gene therapy and genetic engineering, including extending lifespan and treating neurodegenerative diseases. The chapter raises questions about the future of genetic engineering and the potential benefits of extending human life, including impact on healthcare and government spending.
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Quick takeaways
Gene therapies aim to extend healthy life by targeting the biological aging process and addressing multiple aging-related diseases simultaneously.
Gene therapies have shown promising results in enhancing muscle growth and strength, holding potential for improving physical and cognitive performance.
Deep dives
Gene therapies for disease eradication and extended healthy life
Gene therapies are being developed to eradicate diseases and extend healthy life. These technologies have shown promising results in animals and human cell culture, and the next step is to move these therapies into human bodies. By targeting the biological aging process, which is responsible for many diseases, it is believed that multiple symptoms can be addressed simultaneously. These therapies aim to reset cellular division and upregulate proteins to mitigate and reverse aging-related diseases. The goal is to enable people to live up to 120 years with good health and improved quality of life.
The potential of gene therapies for improving health and performance
Gene therapies have shown promising results in enhancing muscle growth and strength. Existing therapies involve adding specific genes to boost muscle mass, increasing capabilities such as jumping, running, and strength. In the future, advancements in genetic engineering may provide opportunities for greater enhancement of physical performance and cognitive abilities. These therapies hold potential for improving areas such as academic motivation, memory, and cognitive function. While certain gene therapies may be transient, requiring periodic treatments, the focus is on permanent upregulation of beneficial genes for lasting health improvements.
The societal impact and potential savings of gene therapies
Widespread adoption of gene therapies could lead to significant societal benefits and cost savings. By eradicating diseases associated with aging, the strain on healthcare systems could be reduced. The impact would be especially significant as the world population is projected to have more older adults than young children. This shift presents an opportunity to rethink healthcare, redirecting resources towards preventive measures and longevity therapies. The potential savings from reducing healthcare costs related to aging diseases could reach trillions of dollars. Universal access to these therapies and affordable pricing would further maximize the benefits and cost savings.
Challenges and opportunities in the gene therapy field
Gene therapy faces challenges, such as the need for further research and development, refining techniques, and ensuring safety and efficacy. Funding is crucial for advancing research and conducting larger clinical trials. The company discussed has plans to conduct offshore clinical trials for atherosclerosis and Alzheimer's disease. The success of these trials could pave the way for wider adoption of gene therapies. The company aims to prioritize transparency, ethical practices, and the well-being of patients. A future goal is to explore genomic engineering, where a more comprehensive understanding of the human genome could lead to tailored gene therapies, optimizing individual health and pushing the boundaries of human potential.
Visionary Liz Parrish shares some of the remarkable ways that genetic therapies are helping humanity transcend disease, aging and physical limitations. We discuss some of the current applications of gene therapy, what we can reasonably expect given the rate of progress and some of the moral implications of this science. If you’re anything like us, you’ll be astounded to hear about this work; it can already make you stronger and faster, and it may help future generations live upwards of 400 years!