Last month, Thomas “Tom” Johnson, a key scientist who put ageing research on the map, passed away. In the 1980s, ageing was a difficult process to study because it was caused by thousands of genes. However, Tom Johnson showed that a single genetic alteration can significantly extend lifespan.
Through his research on small worms, the nematodes, he proved that it is possible to extend lifespan by more than 50 per cent through genetic selection. This was a revolutionary discovery that was initially doubted by many scientists. Nevertheless, his work ensured that ageing was taken seriously as a field of research.
Thanks to Johnson, several researchers began a career in ageing biology, thereby contributing to the further development of the scientific field. His open attitude and meticulous research approach served as a source of inspiration for many, including some of the most prominent researchers at the Buck Institute.
Tom Johnson's research laid a solid foundation for geroscience, a field that looks at slowing down or potentially reversing the ageing process. This is important because it can help us stay healthy for longer and improve our quality of life in later years.
This story highlights how ageing research is increasingly offering opportunities for healthy ageing.
Source: Buck Institute
