Oldsters Chase Longevity Drug

Modern science just handed govt's and merchants a big, fat raise. An obscure bacterium was uncovered that secretes a chemical, rapamycin, that extends life in worms, flies and rodents by about 14% E.g., average longevity in America is 79 years. 14% more would be 90 years. (12-18-09 SCIENCE, P. 1602) This discovery has created a pharmaceutical gold rush among corporations and venture capitalists racing to market the drug from third world countries to wealthy geriatrics in nations saddled with restrictive laws governing new drugs. Rapamycin was fed to old mice (60 years old, equivalent) and it still extended their lives by about ten to 19%: This efficacy is a powerful incentive for enterprising persons to establish a marketing network before drug corporations can obtain gov't approval for their own sales.

The research labs have not revealed which specific soil bacterial strain or species secretes rapamycin in order to prevent farming by such opportunists. The molecule is too complex to easily synthesize, making the only source for rapamycin a doctor's prescription. The drug is used against kidney cancer and to help prevent organ rejection. Even so, the potential for black market sales is high and increasing dramatically as more people learn of this incredible drug. It is the first drug that has ever increased the lifespan of any mammal.