A Popular Science View of the Road to Partial Reprogramming Therapies

Reprogramming via expression of the Yamanaka factors slowly transforms somatic cells from tissues of any age into induced pluripotent stem cells that are essentially identical to embryonic stem cells. Along the way, aged epigenetic patterns are reset to a youthful configuration, and age-related decline of mitochondrial function is reversed. This approach recapitulates the cellular rejuvenation that takes place in early embryonic development. Interestingly, temporarily exposing old animals to Yamanaka factors produces improved health and far less cancer than one might expect. It appears that it may be possible to build therapies for aging based on partial reprogramming, meaning exposing cells to expression of the reprogramming factors for long enough to obtain epigenetic rejuvenation, but not so long as to create pluripotent cells that can go on to generate cancer. The animal data is promising, but it may still turn out to be challenging to establish that point of balance sufficiently well to convince regulators to approve treatments. An aging research initiative called Altos Labs recently launched with $3 billion in initial financing from backers. This is the latest in a recent surge of investment in ventures seeking to build anti-aging interventions on the back of basic research into epigenetic reprogramming. In December, NewLimit was founded, an aging-focused biotech backed by an initial $105 million investment. The discovery of the 'Yamanaka factors...
Source: Fight Aging! - Category: Research Authors: Tags: Daily News Source Type: blogs