In this episode of LongeCity interview, Aubrey de Grey shares exciting updates on the ambitious projects led by the Longevity Escape Velocity Foundation, particularly the cutting-edge robust mouse rejuvenation research.

Key Points:

Aubrey de Grey's LEVF is advancing life extension with the robust mouse rejuvenation project, aiming to demonstrate significant lifespan improvements in middle-aged mice. Despite progress, human trials face substantial funding and regulatory challenges.

• Introduction to the Longevity Escape Velocity Foundation (LEVF): Aubrey de Grey discusses the LEVF, which focuses on both advocacy and research to accelerate life extension efforts. About 20% of their funding supports advocacy, with key projects like the Alliance for Longevity Initiatives and the Healthspan Action Coalition.
• Robust Mouse Rejuvenation Project: The flagship research initiative of LEVF involves testing the combined effects of four interventions that extend lifespan in middle-aged mice. These interventions include rapamycin, stem cell replacement, telomerase gene therapy, and senolytics.
• Importance of Middle-Aged Mice: The goal is to apply these therapies to mice already in middle age, mimicking the human condition where aging interventions would begin later in life. The project aims to measure both lifespan and healthspan improvements.
• Telomerase and Stem Cell Therapy: Aubrey highlights recent breakthroughs in telomerase therapy, which extends lifespan even in mice that naturally produce telomerase. He also mentions using young stem cells to rejuvenate the older blood and metabolic systems.
• Cryonics Research Support: LEVF is funding research in cryonics, particularly through a company called Kainis, aiming to improve the quality of cryopreservation and reduce tissue damage.
• Challenges in Moving to Human Trials: While Aubrey is optimistic about mouse research, he acknowledges that translating these results into human therapies is a major challenge due to regulatory hurdles and limited funding for large-scale human trials.