The secret to a longer life is ... switching off a protein

Scientists have invented a new drug that increased the life of mice by up to 25 per cent in results that could result in similar effects in humans. Researchers say the findings raise the “tantalising” prospect that the drugs could have a similar effect in elderly humans.

- NINA MASSEY

The mice that were given the treatment lived for an average of 155 weeks, compared with 120 weeks in untreated mice. The treated mice were known as “supermodel grannies” in the lab because of their youthful appearance.

Scientists hope the findings could one day potentially extend healthy ageing in people by reducing frailty and the signs of ageing. Researchers found that the treatment largely reduced deaths from cancer in the animals, as well as reducing the many diseases caused by chronic inflammation and poor metabolism, which are hallmarks of ageing.

Essentially, the animals lived healthier lives for longer, and according to the findings, there were very few side effects.

Scientists at the Medical Research Council Laboratory of Medical Science and Imperial College London found that switching off a protein called IL-11 increased the healthy lifespan of mice.