Scientists at the University of Bonn converted blood cells from an 80-year-old into neural stem cells, then measured their age using epigenetic clocks that track chemical changes to DNA. The cells registered as younger than 20, representing a reversal of more than 60 years of molecular aging.
The breakthrough differs from earlier rejuvenation techniques by allowing researchers to observe the process gradually over more than 100 days, rather than rapidly through an intermediate stage. This extended timeline gives scientists the opportunity to investigate which substances accelerate or interrupt cellular rejuvenation.
The findings could eventually aid research into age-related diseases such as Alzheimer's, where aging is a major risk factor. However, the experiment has not yet established whether this process can safely treat disease in humans.
Early Human Testing Begins
In January, US regulators cleared Life Biosciences to test ER-100, an experimental treatment designed to rejuvenate damaged cells in the eye. Three glaucoma patients tolerated the treatment through 56 days, with two showing preliminary improvements in vision tests. The findings, released on October 8, remain part of a limited, uncontrolled safety trial.
Significant Investment in Longevity Research
Longevity biotech attracted a record $18.4 billion in 2025, compared with $4.7 billion in 2024. By mid-September 2026, an additional $12.1 billion had been invested.
Major backers include Coinbase co-founder Brian Armstrong's NewLimit, which raised $435 million in June and plans to begin human testing of a therapy targeting aged liver cells in 2027. Sam Altman-backed Retro Biosciences reached a $1.8 billion valuation in May and is already testing an experimental Alzheimer's pill. Altos Labs has raised $3 billion for cellular rejuvenation research, while crypto-funded VitaDAO has supported over 30 longevity projects.
Whether these investments will translate into safe, effective treatments for humans remains the central question facing the industry.
