Harvard Scientists have reversed certain effects of the aging process, restoring the intelligence of smell and brain function in mice, a new study shows.The technique developed by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute researchers can assist old mice, physiologically equivalent to 80-year-old humans, to increase certain capacities of young adults.
During the study, published in Nature, researchers genetically manipulated mice to age faster, and then used gene therapy to trigger the anti-aging enzyme telomerase to reverse age-related problems.
"We expected to see a slowing or a stabilization of aging. Instead, what we found was a vivid reversal in aging," said lead researcher Ronald DePinho, adding that his team is now assessing the result of the treatment on lifespan and its effects on living a healthier life into old age.
None of the mice developed cancer following the treatment, the study found.
Scientists stressed that the present study is an early step and more researches are needed to review its potential benefits in normal aging of mice before understanding whether the process might work in humans.
