For decades, scientists have searched for ways to slow aging and extend human life. While medical advances continue to push life expectancy higher, new research suggests there may be a biological ceiling that even future breakthroughs cannot overcome, reports UNILAD.
According to researchers from the Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech) and the AI research institute AIRI, the human body appears to have natural limits that could prevent people from living indefinitely. The findings were reported by Medical Xpress.
The body has limits
The study examined somatic mutations, which are small changes that gradually accumulate in the DNA of cells throughout a person's lifetime.
The Wellcome Sanger Institute describes these mutations as a normal part of aging, but over time they can impair cell function and increase the risk of diseases such as cancer.
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Using a mathematical model, the researchers estimated how long humans might live if other reversible aging processes could one day be eliminated.
Even under those highly optimistic conditions, they found that the theoretical median lifespan would likely fall between 146 and 194 years.
Not every organ ages the same
The research also found that different organs cope with aging in different ways. Tissues such as the liver and skin constantly replace old cells, allowing them to maintain their function for much longer.
The brain and heart, however, have far less capacity to regenerate. As damage accumulates in these organs, it becomes increasingly difficult for the body to repair itself, making them key factors in determining the limits of human longevity.
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More than one cause
The researchers emphasize that somatic mutations are only one part of the aging process. Other biological mechanisms, including changes to protein maintenance, mitochondrial function and epigenetic regulation, are also believed to play major roles in limiting lifespan.
The findings suggest that while future medicine may continue to improve health and extend life, there is unlikely to be a single breakthrough capable of allowing humans to live for centuries.
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