The race for immortality has a new protagonist: interleukin 11. This protein, recently identified by an international team of researchers, could prove to be a key element in the field of longevity. The study, which saw a significant increase in lifespan in mice, opens new perspectives and raises important questions about its applicability to humans.
The discovery of interleukin 11 and its impact
A study published in the prestigious journal Nature (I link it here) revealed that the deactivation of the inflammatory protein interleukin 11 (IL-11) can significantly increase healthy lifespan in mice, up to almost 25%. This research, conducted by scientists at Duke National University and the National Heart Research Institute in Singapore, in collaboration with Imperial College and Duke University, represents a notable step forward in understanding the mechanisms of aging.
Methodology and results of the study
The researchers observed that IL-11 levels increased with age in several tissues in mice. Using genetic engineering techniques to eliminate this gene, they noticed a prolongation of the average survival of mice of both sexes. In an alternative approach, then treated normal mice with an anti-IL-11 drug from 75 weeks of age (equivalent to approximately 55 years in humans) until death, observing an extension of the average lifespan 22,4% in males and 25% in females.
Implications for health and longevity
Professor Stuart Cook, lead author of the study, pointed out that the treated mice not only lived longer. No. They also showed signs of healthier aging. “The treated mice had fewer tumors and were free from typical signs of aging and frailty. We also observed a reduction in muscle atrophy and an improvement in muscle strength,” said the scientist.
Undoubtedly promising results, but it is equally important to note that the transition from mouse research to human application requires further in-depth studies. There is one interesting factor, however: specific anti-IL-11 treatments are currently in human clinical trials for other conditions. And this potentially offers exciting opportunities to study their effects on human aging really soon.
What do the experts think?
Professor Alessandro Sgambato, full professor of General Pathology at the Catholic University, Rome campus, comments: “The work is very interesting because it suggests that the inhibition of IL-11 may represent a new therapeutic strategy to promote healthy aging health, slowing down and postponing the onset of unwanted effects such as muscle fragility and metabolic decay.”
Sgambato underlines the importance of further research: “We must first of all better clarify the link between IL-11 and aging in humans, for example by measuring the molecule in elderly and young subjects, and especially in centenarians and ultracentenarians.” Furthermore, it is essential to investigate the effects of anti-IL-11 drugs on the metabolic decline typical of advanced age. It takes work, but it's worth it.
This finding aligns with current knowledge about the link between aging and inflammation, a phenomenon known as “inflammation“. IL-11, being an important mediator of inflammation, could play a crucial role in this process. We have seen one of its "relatives", interleukin-2, giant against tumors in a recent study, again on mice. It is worth continuing to follow this path.
Future prospects
The discovery of the role of interleukin 11 in aging represents a significant advance in longevity research. As we await developments on these exciting prospects, we maintain a balanced approach by recognizing both the potential of these new discoveries and the proven value of a healthy lifestyle. Dr. Sgambato recalls the importance of traditional methods to combat aging: “We continue to combat inflammaging and aging with traditional methods whose effectiveness we know: a healthy lifestyle with regular physical activity and nutrition adequate, such as the Mediterranean diet.”
If a "leap" in longevity comes, let's make sure it finds us in shape.
