Researchers have identified a potential anti-aging target by demonstrating that inhibiting the protein interleukin-11 (IL-11) can significantly extend the lifespan and improve health markers in mice. The study, published in Nature, showed that mice either genetically engineered to lack IL-11 or treated with a drug to remove it lived 20-25% longer than control groups. This research, conducted by teams at the MRC Laboratory of Medical Science, Imperial College London, and Duke-NUS Medical School in Singapore, suggests that targeting IL-11 could offer a novel approach to combating age-related diseases and extending human lifespan.
The Role of Interleukin-11 in Aging
Interleukin-11 is a protein that increases in the human body with age, contributing to inflammation and influencing biological processes that control the pace of aging. According to the researchers, IL-11 appears to flip several biological switches that accelerate aging. To investigate its role, the team conducted two key experiments. In the first, they genetically modified mice to prevent them from producing IL-11. In the second, they administered an IL-11-targeting antibody to mice aged 75 weeks, roughly equivalent to a 55-year-old human.
Significant Improvements in Health and Longevity
The results revealed that mice lacking IL-11 or treated with the antibody experienced a notable increase in lifespan. Furthermore, these mice exhibited several improved health markers. They had lower levels of cancer, improved muscle function, were leaner, had healthier fur, and scored better on measures of frailty. These findings suggest that IL-11 plays a significant role in driving age-related decline.
Clinical Implications and Ongoing Trials
An antibody targeting IL-11 is currently being tested in human clinical trials for lung fibrosis, a condition characterized by scarring of the lungs that makes breathing difficult. Professor Stuart Cook, one of the lead researchers, noted that while the trials are ongoing, preliminary data suggests the drug is safe for human use. This is a crucial step toward potentially translating the anti-aging effects observed in mice to humans.
Expert Perspectives
When questioned about the seemingly remarkable results, Professor Cook acknowledged the need for caution but emphasized the strength of the data. "I try not to get too excited...is it too good to be true? There's lots of snake oil out there, so I try to stick to the data and they are the strongest out there." He expressed his belief that trialing the drug in human aging is worthwhile, stating that the impact "would be transformative" if successful and indicating his willingness to take it himself.
Challenges and Future Directions
Despite the promising results, significant questions remain about the potential side effects and overall efficacy of IL-11 inhibition in humans. IL-11 plays a role in early human development, and its absence can lead to skeletal and dental abnormalities. However, researchers hypothesize that its detrimental effects are more pronounced later in life. The ongoing clinical trials for lung fibrosis will provide valuable insights into the safety and tolerability of IL-11-targeting therapies. As research in the field of aging continues to expand, scientists are also exploring other potential anti-aging interventions such as metformin and rapamycin, alongside strategies like calorie restriction.
