Smithsonian Magazine · Geschiedenis en cultuur

GLP-1 Drugs May Slow Aging and Extend Lifespan in Mice, Study Suggests

New research indicates that GLP-1 medications, like Ozempic and Wegovy, might offer an additional benefit beyond their approved uses: slowing the aging process and extending lifespan. A study in Nature found that semaglutide increased the lifespan of elderly female mice and reduced cellular aging markers.

The study aimed to see if GLP-1 drugs could mimic the anti-aging effects of calorie restriction without the difficulty of sustained dieting. Researchers injected 20-month-old female mice (comparable to 60-year-old women) with semaglutide daily. The treated mice lived 12% longer on average than the control group.

The researchers excluded male mice from the study due to their aggressive nature, which could complicate findings. Mice treated with semaglutide also showed improved physical and cognitive functions, including increased activity, curiosity, better performance on physical tasks like balancing and running, and faster maze navigation. Molecular analysis revealed reduced DNA damage and inflammation in their tissues.

When compared to mice whose diets were restricted by the same percentage (24%) as the semaglutide group's self-imposed reduction, both methods led to similar lifespans and endurance. However, semaglutide-treated mice showed greater improvements in memory, exploration, and glucose tolerance, suggesting benefits beyond calorie restriction alone.

While the study shows a positive signal in mice, further testing is needed. Experts note that findings in one gender do not always translate to the other. A clinical concern is the potential for muscle loss associated with GLP-1 use, which could be particularly problematic for older adults already experiencing age-related muscle decline. Exercise is recommended to counteract this risk.

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