How Long Could Humans Live If We Cured Aging? People Might Live to 200 Years Before DNA Damage Kills Them
A new study from the Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology suggests that even if all major diseases of aging were cured, human lifespan would likely be capped at around 200 years due to accumulated DNA damage. The research highlights the biological limits imposed by somatic mutations.
Why it matters
Understanding the fundamental biological constraints on human longevity helps set realistic expectations for life-extension research.
How long would humans live if we cured aging? Not merely slowing it but preventing the gradual breakdown that causes muscles to weaken, organs to deteriorate and diseases such as dementia and heart failure to become more common. A new study offers a provocative answer. Even under that almost unimaginably optimistic scenario, most people might not live much beyond 200.
The reason lies inside every cell. Throughout life, our DNA picks up random errors known as somatic mutations. They arise when cells copy their genetic material or repair everyday damage. Most do nothing noticeable, but some kill cells or prevent them from working properly. Unlike many other changes associated with aging, these mutations cannot simply be reset once they have accumulated.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in