Archive · 3 Aug 2025
Blocking IL-11 Protein May Extend Lifespan
Imagine a protein in your body called IL-11 that causes inflammation, which can speed up aging.
Scientists have found that blocking this protein in mice can help them live longer, much like how taking care of your body helps you live longer.
The treated mice got several health benefits, such as better muscles and eyesight.
This treatment is similar to another medicine called rapamycin, but without the bad side effects.
Doctors are doing human trials to see if this also works for people, but it'll be a while before this treatment might be available.
Inhibiting the IL-11 protein in mice increased lifespan by 25%.
The study used an antibody to block IL-11, a protein that promotes inflammation.
Treated mice showed reduced cancer risk, improved muscle function and vision.
The treatment's effects are compared to those of rapamycin, but without its side effects.
Human trials are being conducted, but it will be long before the treatment is available.
- Who
- Researchers studied mice, including Dr. Roohi Pirzada.
- What
- Study shows inhibiting IL-11 protein may increase lifespan and improve health.
- When
- Research ongoing, with human trials in progress.
- Where
- Study conducted on mice; research ongoing globally.
- Why
- To explore potential treatments to extend lifespan and improve health by inhibiting inflammation.
Potential Benefits
Unknowns and Uncertainties
Effectiveness
Potential Benefits
Inhibiting IL-11 protein may significantly extend lifespan by 25% in mice.
Unknowns and Uncertainties
Human trials are needed to confirm if similar results can be achieved.
- Protein Targeted
- IL-11
- Animal Studied
- Mice
- Lifespan Increase (Mice)
- 25%
- Treatment Method
- Antibody to inhibit IL-11
- Side effects
- Not present in anti IL-11 treatments