Researchers have discovered that metformin, a widely used diabetes medication, may have surprising anti-aging effects. A study conducted by scientists from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the Beijing Genomics Institute found that metformin significantly slowed aging in monkeys, which could have implications for humans.
The 40-month study, published in the journal Cell, involved long-tailed macaques aged 13 to 16 years, equivalent to 40 to 50 human years. The monkeys were given a standard human dose of metformin daily, and extensive assessments were performed every three months.
Results showed notable improvements in cognitive abilities, with the monkeys demonstrating better memory and learning skills compared to those not receiving the drug. Additionally, metformin appeared to slow brain aging by six years, enhance liver and heart function, and maintain the thickness of the frontal lobe, a brain area crucial for language and memory.
Researchers emphasized that the observed anti-aging effects may be independent of metformin's blood sugar-lowering properties, as the drug directly affects neurons. While one monkey experienced kidney damage, no significant side effects were noted in the analysis of 68 biological factors.
This study suggests that targeting the underlying mechanisms of aging could improve chronic conditions and prevent age-related diseases. However, researchers caution that further studies are needed to explore the long-term effects of metformin after discontinuation.