ev·er·more

I previously wrote an article about the way of a centenarian which focused on the genetics and lifestyle of a centenarian. Unlike the previous article, this passage will be about the treatments available, both biotech and lifestyle.

The simplest way to extend your life is to simply follow the seven pillars of longevity: healthy diet, exercise, avoiding risky substances, good mental health, healthy sleep schedule, positive family and social life, and personal motivation. For more details about these pillars, look at one of my previous articles – Living Longer: The Ways of a Centenarian. These seven pillars that centenarians unconsciously follow are a big part of the path to 100.

Although centenarians follow these pillars, another large part of their longevity is their genetics. I also talked about this in one of my previous posts. The two main genes that are found in almost every centenarian are ApoE2 and FOX03A. The gene ApoE2 is protective against Alzheimer’s diseases, so anyone with this gene will be less likely to contract Alzheimer’s. The gene FOX03A reduces age related diseases. This gene reduces diseases that come with old age, for instance, cancer or arthritis. It is interesting that these genes found in centenarians are protective against diseases that may weaken or incapacitate these people. Without these genes, there is a chance that these people would not live as long as they do.

Another part of living longer which I didn’t mention in the first part of this series was the fact that there is biotechnology and certain treatments that allow you to live longer. One of these treatments has to do with senescent cells – cells that do not die after they stop multiplying but cause malfunctions to their neighbors.

Senescent cells are not only deadly to the cells around them, but also speed up aging. One way we can remove these cells is by taking senolytic drugs that target these cells. The downside to this treatment is the fact that they kill other cells in the process.

Luckily, scientists are researching another possible treatment – rejuvenating cells and tissues by changing the epigenetic markers. The epigenetic markers are, in essence, the turn genes on and off, acting like a switch. As people age, these markers accumulate. Although clearing senescent cells would delay ageing, epigenetic rejuvenation could halt or even reverse it.

As scientists begin to research many different ways to achieve longevity through biotechnology, there are still the basic ways to achieve this. Although it is a very tedious process, the seven pillars of longevity are the healthiest way to live to 100+. Do not forget the basis of longevity: a healthy lifestyle.