Table of Contents
A recent study has highlighted the potential of metformin, a widely used diabetes drug, to slow the aging process in monkeys. The research, published Sept. 12 in Cell, shows that daily doses of metformin can preserve cognitive function and slow the effects of aging on various tissues, particularly the brain. This research raises the intriguing possibility that metformin could one day be used to slow aging in humans.
The impact of metformin on cognitive function
In the study conducted by Guanghui Liu and his team at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, 12 older male cynomolgus macaques were given metformin daily for 40 months, a duration equivalent to about 13 human years. The researchers observed that the metformin-treated monkeys showed significantly slower cognitive decline compared to a control group of untreated monkeys. Neuronal activity in the treated monkeys resembled that of animals about six years younger, which equates to about 18 human years. This finding suggests that metformin has a remarkable effect on maintaining brain health and improving cognitive function.
Effect on other tissues
The study also examined how metformin affected other tissues in the body. Researchers found that the drug slowed the biological aging of several tissues, including those in the lungs, kidneys, liver, skin, and frontal lobe of the brain. In addition, metformin reduced chronic inflammation, a key marker of aging. The drug’s effect on these different tissues points to broader potential for anti-aging benefits beyond the brain.
Mechanisms and future research
One of the proposed mechanisms by which metformin exerts its anti-aging effects is through the activation of a protein called NRF2. This protein plays a crucial role in protecting cells from damage caused by inflammation and injury. Despite these promising results, it is important to note that the study did not assess the drug’s impact on lifespan, but focused primarily on its ability to improve health span: the period during which an organism is in good health.
Challenges and next steps
While the findings are encouraging, there are several limitations. The study included a relatively small number of male monkeys, and more research is needed to determine whether the results are consistent across genders and larger sample sizes. Additionally, Liu and his team have launched a new study with 120 participants, in collaboration with Merck, to test the effects of metformin on human aging. Additionally, efforts are underway to raise funds for a larger-scale study involving 3,000 people aged 65-79, which aims to investigate the drug’s potential to extend health span and improve quality of life in older adults.
Conclusion
The study provides valuable insights into the potential of metformin, beyond its use in diabetes management. It opens up exciting possibilities for future research into aging and suggests that this inexpensive drug could play a role in promoting healthier aging in humans. However, larger and more diverse studies are needed to confirm these findings and fully understand the impact of metformin on human health and longevity.
