Ageing is an inevitable process, but what if science could find a way to reverse it?
The Dr. Vittorio Sebastiano, Associate Professor (Research) of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (Reproductive, Perinatal and Stem Cell Biology Research) of the Stanford University, has been at the forefront of groundbreaking research that seeks to do just that: rejuvenate cells to restore them to their optimal state. In a recent interview in Italy, where the professor was a speaker at the Milan and Vatican Longevity SummitWe spoke to him about the advances in his work and the implications this could have for medicine and human wellbeing.
Cellular reprogramming as the key to rejuvenation
Prof. Sebastiano leads a team studying cell reprogramming, a technique based on the introduction of transcription factors that can restore aged cells to a younger state. "What we have achieved in the lab is to show that we can restore more youthful characteristics to a cell without compromising its original identity," explains the researcher. "The exciting thing about this process is that we are not generating completely new cells, but revitalising existing cells so that they can perform their functions more effectively.
This process is inspired by the studies of Nobel Laureate Shinya Yamanakawho identified "Yamanaka factors" capable of inducing pluripotency in adult cells. However, Sebastiano's team's proposal seeks to avoid the risk of converting cells into a non-functional state and instead allow for safe "partial rejuvenation". "If we induce full pluripotency, we risk losing the functionality of the cell in its original context. Our approach is more selective and controlled," he says.
Medical applications and the future of longevity
One of the most promising aspects of this technology is its application in age-related diseases. "In animal models, we have seen improvements in tissue regeneration, muscle function and overall health in treated organisms," says Prof. Sebastiano. "In experiments with mice, we have observed that those treated with our technique show accelerated recovery in damaged tissues, suggesting that the cellular ageing process can be slowed down or even reversed in certain cases.
Potential benefits include treating neurodegenerative diseases, strengthening the immune system in older people and improving recovery from injuries. "We are particularly interested in the impact on diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.where cell degeneration plays a crucial role. If we can preserve neuronal functionality for longer, we could radically change the way these pathologies are approached," he says.
However, the researcher stresses that further studies are still needed before this technology can be safely applied in humans. "We are at an advanced stage, but caution is key. We must make sure that the effects are long-lasting and, above all, safe," he stresses.
Ethics and challenges of cellular rejuvenation
Beyond scientific advances, cellular rejuvenation raises ethical questions. "We must ensure that this technology is not only available to an elite, but that it is accessible to all."warns Sebastiano. In addition, there are concerns about the long-term effects and possible risks of manipulating human biology in this way. "Regulation will be a determining factor. We do not want to raise unrealistic expectations or generate treatments that may have unforeseen side effects."He adds.
Dr Sebastiano is optimistic but also cautious: "This is an exciting time in biology, but we must move forward responsibly. Our goal is not immortality, but to improve people's quality of life.". According to the researcher, the main goal is to extend health, not simply prolong life. "We don't want people to live longer in poor conditions, but to enjoy more years in full and functional health.
A real hope for the future
Despite the uncertainties, research into cellular reprogramming represents one of the most exciting frontiers in science today. If studies continue to show positive results, we may be closer to a new era in which age is no longer a limiting factor for health and well-being.
The work of Prof. Sebastiano and his team at Stanford invites us to imagine a future in which ageing is not synonymous with deterioration, but a stage of life with all its capacities intact. The key, as he himself points out, is to continue to explore the mysteries of human biology with rigour and ethics.
