Naked mole-rats are renowned for their remarkable lifespan, living up to 41 years, which is nearly ten times longer than other rodents of comparable size. These unique creatures rarely suffer from cancer, arthritis, or other diseases typically associated with aging. Their exceptional longevity is largely attributed to the significantly high levels of high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid (HMW-HA) found in their bodies, which is approximately ten times greater than that present in mice or humans. In a groundbreaking study conducted in 2023, researchers from the University of Rochester in the United States successfully transplanted a gene from the naked mole-rat that is crucial for the production of HMW-HA into mice. The resulting genetically modified mice exhibited increased resistance to tumors, better gut health, and considerably reduced tissue inflammation as they aged. Although the median lifespan of these mice only increased by 4.4%, this could translate to about 3.5 additional years for a human living to the age of 80. The researchers are now focused on exploring ways to replicate these effects in humans.
Informational material. 18+.
