
The Longevity Molecule - Scheibye-Knudsen Lab

Stage
Early Stage Preclinical Discovery
Area
Drug Repurposing
Status
Ongoing
Patent Status
Not Filed Yet
Background
The study, consisting of over 1.4 billion prescriptions, found that a number of prescription drugs were highly associated with longer life- and health-span in long-live populations. Here, we present a unique investment opportunity. We seek to validate these observations through a series of carefully conducted wet lab experiments. If successful, this work could result in the repurposing of several FDA-approved therapeutics for the purpose of extending human lifespan, at a lower cost and over faster timelines than conceivably possible with de novo drug discovery. This unique investment opportunity allows savvy longevity investors the chance to own a share of the potential intellectual property generated from these studies, and in turn, a potential share in the future of life extension.
Aims, Hypothesis & Results
The global elderly population is projected to substantially increase throughout the 21st century. By the year 2100 a fifth of the total world population will be aged 65 or older, posing a serious socioeconomic challenge to societies world-wide. Interventions that ensure healthy aging are therefore of critical importance.
Timeline
The Scheibye-Knudsen Lab will test the identified drugs' ability to attenuate features of aging in a controlled laboratory setting. Here, the molecules will be tested in human cells and in the animal model drosophila melanogaster (fruit flies). Fruit flies are used extensively in biomedical research and particular aging research as they have a short lifespan of about 60 days.
Additionally, the drugs will be tested in human cells to rapidly understand how the molecules affect human cellular aging.
Pre-Clinical Studies 1: Testing in Fruit Flies and Human Cells
Required Funding: $500,000
Duration: 24 Months
VitaDAO Board Evaluation Writeup
This program focuses on testing and developing three of these small molecules as possible interventions in aging. Specifically, we will test the drugs on human cell cultures and in various animal models. Importantly, the current anti-aging market stands at 200 billion USD, even without a single scientifically proven treatment. Our molecules target this specific market with the aim of letting everyone live healthier, happier and longer lives.
Latest Project Updates
Based on the results of the project and complementary analysis, the lab is preparing a publication, sharing the outcomes with the scientific community, in line with VitaDAO's common good values.
Study completed and final report delivered: some compounds had positive effects on cellular senescence. The lab will carry out complementary analysis to dive deeper into the project results.
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