Scientists have long been investigating substances that can slow down ageing. One of these substances is celastrol, which mimics the effects of exercise. Research in mice shows that celastrol can extend lifespan only slightly. However, this effect is small and not always seen in rigorous scientific studies.
Mice live relatively short lives and their metabolism is flexible, which influences the ageing process. In humans, who live much longer than mice, manipulating metabolism usually works less well. This means that substances such as celastrol will likely have little effect on human lifespan.
Science is also investigating other means that aim to mimic the effect of exercise or eating less, such as calorie restriction. Although these approaches are interesting, they are unlikely to provide years of extra life in humans. Therefore, researchers continue to search for other ways to promote healthy ageing.
It is important to know that a healthy lifestyle with plenty of exercise and good nutrition still remains the best way to age healthily. Experiments with medicines such as celastrol are valuable, but for the time being they do not offer miracle cures against ageing.
Source: Reason
