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.

New Scholarship for Future Doctors Opens Applications

A new scholarship initiative, the Dr. Sergio Sokol Scholarship for Future Doctors, is now accepting applications for its 2027 award cycle. Established by Dr. Sergio Sokol, a board-certified cardiologist, this scholarship aims to support students committed to pursuing a career in medicine while emphasizing compassionate healthcare. The award will provide $1,000 to a deserving student, reflecting Dr. Sokol’s dedication to patient care and the development of future medical leaders.

This scholarship is particularly significant for aspiring healthcare professionals who may face financial challenges in their educational journey. By alleviating some of the financial burden, the Dr. Sergio Sokol Scholarship encourages talented individuals to enter the medical field, ultimately benefiting communities and patients. Students who embody qualities like integrity, leadership, and a desire to improve healthcare will be prioritized. This initiative is open to undergraduate, graduate, and medical students, as well as graduating high school seniors accepted into accredited programs.

The application process involves an essay competition, where applicants will respond to the prompt: “What inspires you to become a physician, and how do you hope to improve the lives of your future patients and the communities you will serve?” This approach allows students to showcase their motivations and visions for their future roles in healthcare. Applications are due by April 15, 2027, with the scholarship recipient announced on May 15, 2027. For more information, interested students can visit the official scholarship website.

Through this scholarship, Dr. Sokol hopes to inspire the next generation of physicians to pursue excellence and compassionate care, ensuring a positive impact on the future of healthcare.

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