Longevity & Aging

Labs Bet on Replacing Aged Cells and Organs Rather Than Repairing Them

Scientists are increasingly exploring whether replacing aged cells, tissues, and organs is more practical than trying to repair them. A new perspective in Aging Cell surveys labs working on stem cell therapies, bioprinted kidneys, and even genes borrowed from long-lived animals like naked mole rats and bowhead whales. Wake Forest's regenerative medicine institute is in Phase 3 trials for bioprinted kidneys that may eliminate dialysis. Stanford researchers are growing vascular cells and specific neuron types to rebuild organs and the brain. Meanwhile, Rochester's Vera Gorbunova is investigating how genes from exceptionally long-lived species could be introduced into humans to fight cancer and enhance DNA repair. The field faces major hurdles including immune rejection and the tendency of transplanted tissue to age rapidly once inside a host.