Lately, it’s felt like my cup is constantly overflowing with joy. First came the Knicks, and I didn’t think anything could top the collective effervescence that followed (please, never let it end). Then, the US Men’s National Soccer Team (USMNT) advanced to the knockout stage in the FIFA World Cup thanks, in part, to one mom’s incredible decision 24 years ago; Dutch fans took over Houston with their famous pre-game traditions (they even shipped in their own gear); and Curaçao made history in more ways than one. Last, but certainly not least, my husband and I threw a party — ahead of the longest day of the year — to celebrate our wedding. Having good things to look forward to has been such a balm, and research agrees. Now, let’s get to the headlines…
— Kylie McConville / VP, Editorial / Queens, NY
Health
Turning Back the (Biological) Clock
What’s going on: As much as our retinol cream loves to tell us it can “reverse aging,” that’s not really possible. Or is it? Scientists launched the first human trial of a treatment designed to make aging cells act younger. Earlier this month, the first patient received ER-100, a therapy designed to switch on three specific genes. These genes can “partially reprogram” old cells, and trick your body into making cells behave like they did decades ago. Right now, it’s limited to regenerating neurons between the eye and brain, and the trial has only enrolled 18 patients across four US cities so far.
Fountain of Youth… found?: Not quite. Researchers hope to rejuvenate optic nerve cells to treat glaucoma, so it’s not exactly the Sorcerer's Stone. They will first need to show the therapy works, and that it's safe before they can begin asking bigger questions about whether the same approach could slow, stop, or reverse aspects of biological aging. And the road will be long, with plenty of trials and intense scrutiny. Time will tell if we can actually biohack our way to longer lives, but until then, “nonnamaxxing” might be our best bet.
