Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, a coenzyme critical for cellular energy metabolism that declines with age. NAD+ precursors like NMN and NR are studied as longevity interventions.

Mechanistic target of rapamycin, a key nutrient-sensing pathway that regulates cell growth and aging. Inhibiting mTOR (e.g., with rapamycin) has shown lifespan extension in multiple organisms.

A class of drugs that selectively eliminate senescent (aged, dysfunctional) cells to reduce inflammation and improve tissue function.

What is Epigenetic clock?

A biomarker based on DNA methylation patterns that estimates biological age, often more predictive of health outcomes than chronological age.

The period of life spent in good health, free from chronic diseases and disability associated with aging.

An immunosuppressant drug that inhibits the mTOR pathway. Research shows rapamycin may extend lifespan and improve age-related health outcomes in multiple species.

What is Biological age?

A measure of how well or poorly your body is functioning relative to your chronological age, assessed through biomarkers such as DNA methylation, telomere length, and blood panels.

What is Caloric restriction?

A dietary regimen that reduces calorie intake without malnutrition. Caloric restriction is one of the most studied interventions shown to extend lifespan across species.

Protective caps at the ends of chromosomes that shorten with each cell division. Telomere length is associated with aging and age-related diseases.

A state in which cells permanently stop dividing but resist death, accumulating with age and secreting inflammatory factors that damage surrounding tissue.

A second-generation epigenetic clock that predicts time to death and is considered one of the most accurate measures of biological aging.

What is Inflammaging?

Chronic, low-grade inflammation that increases with age and contributes to the development of age-related diseases including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and neurodegeneration.

The large-scale study of proteins in biological systems. In longevity research, proteomics identifies blood protein signatures that predict biological age and disease risk.

What is Yamanaka factors?

A set of four transcription factors (Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, c-Myc) that can reprogram adult cells to a pluripotent state. Partial reprogramming with Yamanaka factors is being explored to reverse cellular aging.

Nicotinamide mononucleotide, a precursor to NAD+ that is widely studied as a supplement to boost cellular energy and combat age-related decline.

A gene-editing technology that allows precise modifications to DNA. In longevity research, CRISPR is used to study and potentially modify genes associated with aging.

A cellular housekeeping process where cells break down and recycle damaged components. Declines with age and is stimulated by fasting.

What is Intermittent fasting?

An eating pattern that cycles between periods of fasting and eating. Various protocols (16:8, 5:2) are studied for metabolic, cardiovascular, and longevity benefits.

What is Zone 2 cardio?

Low-intensity aerobic exercise performed at roughly 60–70% of maximum heart rate, primarily using the aerobic energy system. Associated with mitochondrial health and longevity.

Geographic regions identified by researchers where people consistently live longer and healthier lives than average, including Sardinia, Okinawa, and Loma Linda.

Could a new gene therapy improve heart health?

Researchers have announced that the FDA has granted Regenerative Medicine Advanced Therapy (RMAT) designation to LX2020, a new gene therapy aimed at treating a serious heart condition known as PKP2-associated arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (PKP2-ACM). This designation is based on promising interim data from an ongoing clinical trial, which suggests that LX2020 could potentially address the genetic causes of this progressive disease that affects heart function and can lead to sudden cardiac death.

This development is significant for individuals concerned about heart health, especially those with a family history of cardiac issues. Currently, there are no approved treatments that modify the progression of PKP2-ACM, which impacts around 60,000 people in the U.S. The potential of LX2020 to deliver a functional PKP2 gene directly to heart cells could help restore normal heart function and improve outcomes for those affected by this condition.

The evidence for LX2020 is still in the early stages, as it is undergoing a Phase I/II clinical trial. While the RMAT designation indicates that the FDA sees potential in this therapy, it is important to note that further studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety in larger populations. The ongoing HEROIC-PKP2 trial will provide more insights into how well LX2020 works and its potential to become a viable treatment option.

For those interested in heart health, staying informed about advancements like LX2020 could be beneficial. While this therapy is not yet available, it highlights the importance of ongoing research into genetic therapies that could one day change the landscape of cardiovascular disease treatment.

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