Key points from article :
A major international study led by Professor Miguel Chillón from the Institut de Neurociències at the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (INc-UAB) has shown that increasing levels of a naturally occurring protein called Klotho can extend lifespan and improve both physical and cognitive health in aging mice. Published in Molecular Therapy, the research focused on the secreted form of Klotho (s-KL), which is known for its potential in treating neurodegenerative diseases.
As animals—and humans—age, their muscles weaken, bones become fragile, and brain cells deteriorate. In this study, researchers used gene therapy vectors to stimulate the mice’s own cells to produce more s-KL. When the mice reached an age equivalent to 70 in humans, those treated with the therapy exhibited stronger muscles, better bone structure, and improved memory and cognitive function compared to untreated peers.
Notably, mice that received the Klotho treatment lived 15 to 20% longer than the control group. Their muscle fibers were larger, they had less tissue scarring (fibrosis), and female mice showed significantly healthier bone structure, suggesting protection against osteoporosis. Brain analysis revealed increased neuron formation and immune activity in the hippocampus, a region crucial for memory.
With several patents already in place, including new ones following this study, the research team is exploring ways to translate these findings into human therapies. While the current method uses viral vectors to deliver the gene into cells, alternatives such as direct protein delivery are being considered. If successful, this therapy could mark a breakthrough in improving healthspan and reducing age-related decline.
