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Genetically modified stem cells extend lifespan of mice by 20 per cent

A genetic alteration that extends the life of mice can be transferred to other mice via blood stem cells, and this could soon be tested in humans as a cancer treatment

By Michael Le Page

16 May 2023

Genetically modified blood stem cells are being studied as possible treatments for cancer and ageing
STEVE GSCHMEISSNER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

A genetic modification has been discovered that protects mice against cancer and allows them to live up to 20 per cent longer. The discovery is especially promising as the benefits can be transferred to ordinary mice by a single transplant of blood stem cells.

“It was a big surprise,” says Che-Kun James Shen at Taipei Medical University in Taiwan. “So far, we have not found any negative side effects.”

Shen says his team is already collaborating …

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