Inside the scientific quest to reverse human aging

For those hoping to defeat aging, a 2016 experiment at the Salk Institute marked a turning point. Scientists successfully extended the lifespan of mice with a genetic technique called cellular reprogramming. This discovery set off a frenzy of investment from tech billionaires and venture capitalists eager to fund anti-aging research.

The key to this breakthrough lies in Yamanaka factors—genes capable of rewinding a cell’s biological clock by stripping away its epigenetic markers. This process effectively makes aged cells behave as if they were young again. Researchers believe these changes could slow or even reverse the aging process in humans, but major risks remain.

The dangers of turning back the clock

Despite its promise, cellular reprogramming has shown troubling side effects. In some experiments, mice that underwent full reprogramming developed aggressive tumors and died within weeks. Scientists have since attempted partial reprogramming—rejuvenating cells just enough to restore youthful function without causing uncontrolled growth.

Harvard University researchers tested this approach on mice with damaged optic nerves, successfully improving vision. The experiment led to the first FDA application for human trials using cellular reprogramming, expected to begin later this year.

Billionaires and the pursuit of immortality

The prospect of reversing aging has attracted heavy investment from biotech firms and wealthy backers, including Jeff Bezos. Companies like Altos Labs and Life Biosciences are pouring billions into refining the technique, though critics warn that safety concerns and ethical questions remain unresolved.

Scientists are still working to understand how long the benefits of reprogramming last, whether it can be applied to entire organs without dangerous side effects, and who will have access to these treatments. While some researchers are optimistic, others fear that moving too quickly could lead to unforeseen consequences.

For now, aging remains undefeated—but the fight against time is just beginning.