The mechanisms behind longevity research
Ten categories cover most of what matters in the field. Each one explains the biology in plain language, then shows the latest research, the companies working on it and the current signals.
Cellular reprogramming
EmergingPartially resetting a cell's age without erasing what the cell is.
- StrengtheningAnimal regeneration results improving in consistency
- StrengtheningFirst ocular IND filings approaching
- WatchTumour risk from identity loss still unresolved
Senolytics
DevelopingClearing worn-out cells that stop dividing but keep signalling inflammation.
- StrengtheningLocal ocular delivery showing durability
- WatchSystemic tolerability remains the limiting factor
Gene therapy
EstablishedEditing or adding genetic instructions directly inside the body.
- StrengtheningMulti-year durability confirmed in humans
- WatchRegulatory path for preventive editing undefined
Epigenetics
DevelopingThe chemical marks that decide which genes a cell actually uses.
- StableClock endpoints appearing in trial designs
- WatchCausality still contested in the literature
Stem cells
DevelopingReplacing or reactivating the cells that rebuild tissue.
- StrengtheningRegistrational studies underway in neurology
- WatchCost of goods still limits broad use
mTOR
DevelopingA cellular growth switch that, when dialled down, extends life in animals.
- StrengtheningAnimal evidence remains the strongest in the field
- WeakeningPrior pivotal human endpoint miss
NAD+
EmergingA molecule cells need for energy and repair that declines with age.
- StableBiomarker changes reproducible
- WatchFunctional outcome data mixed
- WeakeningConsumer claims outpacing trial evidence
Immunology
DevelopingWhy the immune system weakens and inflames as we age.
- StrengtheningMeasurable endpoints make trials cheaper
- WatchSmall cohorts dominate current data
Metabolic health
EstablishedHow the body handles fuel — the earliest measurable part of aging.
- StrengtheningMeasurement layer generating real revenue
- StableTherapeutic differentiation still thin
AI drug discovery
DevelopingUsing models to find candidate drugs faster than lab screening allows.
- StrengtheningFirst AI-originated Phase 2 readouts landing
- WatchAttribution of success to AI still hard to verify