A new study shows that the drug Rapamycin may help animals live longer just like eating fewer calories does. Scientists from the University of East Anglia and the University of Glasgow found that Rapamycin can extend lifespan almost as well as calorie restriction, a method known for increasing lifespan in many species.
Calorie Cutting and Longevity
For years, scientists have known that eating less—through methods like intermittent fasting or reducing calories—can help animals live longer. But fasting can be hard to maintain for many people.
Researchers wanted to see if popular anti-aging drugs like Rapamycin or Metformin could provide the same benefits without needing to cut calories.
The Study
Dr. Zahida Sultanova, a lead researcher at the University of East Anglia, explained, “Dietary restriction has been the gold standard for living longer, but it’s difficult for most of us to keep up.”
The team studied data from 167 experiments involving eight types of vertebrates, including fish, mice, rats, and primates. This is the largest study of its kind.
They compared the effects of dietary restriction, Rapamycin, and Metformin on lifespan.
Key Findings
Dietary restriction increased lifespan across all the animals studied.
Rapamycin extended lifespan just as well as calorie cutting.
Metformin, a common drug for type 2 diabetes, did not show clear benefits for living longer.
Both male and female animals had similar lifespan improvements.
The type of calorie restriction did not affect results.
What This Means for Aging Research
Rapamycin may offer a way to live longer without the struggle of dieting. Dr. Edward Ivimey-Cook, co-lead researcher from the University of Glasgow, said, “Our results don’t mean everyone should start taking Rapamycin now. But it shows that Rapamycin deserves more research as a tool to help people live healthier, longer lives.”
Dr. Sultanova added, “Repurposing drugs like Rapamycin could be a promising way to improve health and lifespan.”
