Ross Pelton on Rapamycin Longevity Series | How it all began
Mar 15, 2023
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Ross Pelton, a knowledgeable pharmacist and author of 12 health books, shares intriguing insights on the longevity effects of Rapamycin. He delves into its remarkable transformation from an antifungal agent to a game-changer for organ transplant patients. The discussion unveils groundbreaking human trials showcasing Rapamycin's potential in enhancing immune function, especially in the elderly. Pelton also emphasizes the synergy between Rapamycin, fasting, and gut health, advocating for holistic lifestyle practices to promote well-being and longevity.
Rapamycin, originally studied for antibiotic use, is now recognized for its potential in promoting longevity through mTOR inhibition and enhanced autophagy.
The effectiveness of rapamycin in older adults' immune response emphasizes the importance of research on personalized dosing for longevity benefits.
Deep dives
Discovery and Function of Rapamycin
Rapamycin is a natural compound derived from soil bacteria found on Easter Island, initially studied for its antibiotic properties. After discovering its immune-suppressing qualities, it became FDA approved for kidney transplant patients to prevent organ rejection. This unique compound functions differently than traditional chemotherapy; instead of being cytotoxic, which damages healthy cells, it is cytostatic, stopping cancer growth without the collateral damage typically associated with chemotherapy. This has led researchers to explore its potential as a life extension drug, marking rapamycin as a significant breakthrough in anti-aging science.
Balancing mTOR and Autophagy
Rapamycin plays a crucial role in balancing the body's mechanisms of mTOR and autophagy, which are essential for cellular health. mTOR is a protein that promotes cell growth when nutrients are abundant, while autophagy helps detoxify cells when nutrients are scarce. Modern dietary habits, characterized by constant eating, disrupt this balance, leading to less effective detoxification and cellular rejuvenation processes. By inhibiting mTOR, rapamycin encourages the activation of autophagy, thus promoting health and longevity by enhancing the body's natural detoxification capabilities.
The Impact of Dosing on Immune Response
Research indicates that the frequency and dosage of rapamycin can significantly impact immune function, particularly in older adults. A notable clinical trial found that a weekly dose of 5 milligrams enhanced vaccine responses by more than 20% in elderly participants, suggesting that less frequent dosing can yield impressive benefits. Currently, many users opt for a common dosage of 6 milligrams once a week, although there is ongoing discourse about personalizing dosages based on individual metabolic responses. This highlights the need for further research and clinical trials to establish optimal dosing protocols for rapamycin's longevity effects.
Broader Implications and Misconceptions
Despite its promising potential for longevity, there are misconceptions surrounding rapamycin, particularly regarding its availability and applications. Many physicians are unfamiliar with rapamycin as a preventative measure rather than a treatment for cancer or organ transplant recipients, leading to limited prescriptions. To bridge this knowledge gap, education is vital; resources such as books and online forums are being utilized to inform both doctors and the public. The growing interest in rapamycin and the need for more studies could lead to broader acceptance and utilization of the drug in the aging and wellness community.
Ross Pelton has a background as a pharmacist and is an author of 12 books in the health field. In this podcast we are going to talk about his recent published book "Rapamycin, mTOR, Autophagy & Treating mTOR Syndrome". The purpose of this podcast is to increase our knowledge about Rapamycin and it's longevity effects.
Disclaimer: The podcast is for general information and educational purposes only and is not medical advice for you or others. The use of information and materials linked to the podcast is at the users own risk. Always consult your physician with anything you do regarding your health or medical condition.
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