American and Russian scientists have succeeded in a gene expression analysis on nematodes to show that there is a similarity for the genetic aging process of all living beings. Nematodes, here in particular the threadworm „Caenorhabditis elegans“ from the group of rhabditids, are very well researched. The entire genome of microorganisms has been identified, which is why the researchers also succeeded in deciphering the genetic mechanism responsible for the ageing process. Gene manipulations led to a tenfold increase in the lifespan of worms. In addition, a new anti-aging agent was found in the nematodes that can also delay the ageing process in humans. Further experiments showed that certain drugs can also prolong human life. 1309 approved drugs were investigated, in ten of which the research team from the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and the University of Arkansas, Medical Sciences Department, found evidence that certain effects influenced the aging gene. An ideal combination of active ingredients succeeded in increasing the lifespan of the nematodes, which otherwise live 15 to 25 days, by 30 percent. The results show that such effects can also be possible in humans. Detailed investigations are now in any case aimed at. In addition to metamizole (trade name Novalgin), the active substances also include a number of other drugs approved for corresponding diseases such as anisomycin, which is approved as an antibiotic, and eight other active substances from different categories. The scientists were able to prove in the study that the ageing process can be influenced by genetic manipulation and can also be treated with drugs, which is indispensable as a basis for further studies of ageing research.
