Harold Katcher kindly agreed to be interviewed, via email, about his E5 research and his plans for its product development. Here is a summary of that exchange about his groundbreaking work on a porcine plasma fraction treatment known as E5, noting that there were some areas he could not talk about yet.
A Revolutionary Idea
The concept behind E5 stemmed from the work of scientists Irina and Michael Conboy, who demonstrated that aging could potentially be reversed through the introduction of youthful factors in blood plasma. Dr Katcher expanded on this idea, hypothesizing that these rejuvenating factors are conserved among mammals, thereby making porcine plasma a viable source for the treatment.
Promising Results
Dr Katcher's experiments have shown remarkable results, particularly in reversing the aging process in rats. By administering the nanoparticle fraction of young porcine blood plasma, his team was able to reduce the physiological and epigenetic age of old rats to the equivalent of young adulthood. The results were significant, with the epigenetic age of organs being reduced by more than 50% on average, and in some cases, by over 67%.
"This gives a new picture of the physiological basis of aging, and a cure for aging," Dr Katcher explained. Notably, the plasma fractions used in this rejuvenation process can be derived from animals, circumventing ethical issues associated with using young human plasma.
Surprising Discoveries
The surprising efficacy of E5 was not limited to laboratory rats. Dr Katcher personally experienced the rejuvenating effects when his right hand, treated with E5, showed visible signs of youthfulness after just four days. "It was a miracle appearing before my very eyes," he marveled.
Addressing Aging and Lifespan
While the reduction in epigenetic age is a significant breakthrough, the question of translating these findings into extended lifespan remains. Dr Katcher acknowledged the complexity of aging, suggesting that multiple aging mechanisms are at play. He noted that one rat, Sima, lived the equivalent of 160 human years, indicating the potential for lifespan extension with optimal rejuvenation schedules.
Future Plans and Challenges
Dr Katcher recently parted ways with Yuvan Research due to limitations on his autonomy, but he remains committed to advancing E5. With a well-equipped laboratory in Salt Lake City, Utah, and a team of technical experts, he is focused on making E5 commercially viable for widespread use. Despite having some investments, Dr Katcher is open to additional funding to accelerate research and development.
Overcoming Production Costs
One of the significant challenges ahead is reducing the cost of mass production of E5, which currently requires a substantial amount of porcine plasma. Dr Katcher and his team are exploring ways to make the production process more efficient and cost-effective.
The Quest for Extended Lifespan
Looking ahead, Dr Katcher remains optimistic about the potential of E5 to not only reverse aging but also to significantly extend human lifespan. "First conquer aging, then look to death," he stated. His future research aims to understand and address the underlying causes of death in rejuvenated organisms, with the ultimate goal of achieving multiples of current maximum lifespan.
Dr Harold Katcher's pioneering work on E5 represents a monumental step forward in the quest to reverse aging and extend human life. As research continues, the possibility of a future where aging can be effectively treated and managed is becoming increasingly tangible. The Live Forever Club will closely follow these developments and keep you updated on the latest advancements in this exciting field.
Based on an email exchange with Live Forever Club founder, Adrian Cull, during July 2024.
