Metformin, a widely used diabetes medication, may offer more benefits than previously thought. A recent study suggests it could potentially slow the aging process in both the body and brain, specifically in monkeys. While further research involving humans is necessary to validate these findings, the drug’s affordability and widespread availability make it a promising candidate for anti-aging therapies.
Metformin is a crucial drug listed on the World Health Organization’s list of essential medicines, primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels. It’s also sometimes prescribed off-label for weight management and to alleviate symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Emerging research hints at broader benefits, particularly in reducing inflammation, with some studies suggesting potential improvements in brain function and a slowdown in cognitive decline among older patients. While metformin may not directly extend lifespan, it could potentially increase “healthspan”—the duration of life spent in good health.
Previous evidence supporting metformin’s anti-aging properties has largely relied on indirect observational data or studies involving rodents. However, a new study published in Cell by researchers in China offers more compelling evidence using primates.
This study involved adult male cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fasciucularis) over a 40-month period, equivalent to approximately 13 human years. Twelve older monkeys received regular metformin doses, while two control groups—16 older monkeys and 18 young to middle-aged monkeys—did not receive the drug. Through extensive testing, including brain scans, the researchers developed a model to estimate the monkeys’ expected and actual biological age across various organs. The metformin group exhibited signs of slower aging, especially in the liver and brain, compared to the older monkeys not receiving the drug. Researchers calculated that metformin effectively reduced the monkeys’ brain age by an average of six years, potentially translating to an 18-year reduction in humans.
Metformin’s Impact on Primate Aging
The researchers stated, “Our research pioneers the systemic reduction of multi-dimensional biological age in primates through metformin, paving the way for advancing pharmaceutical strategies against human aging.” This represents the first direct examination of metformin’s anti-aging potential in primates.
Further Research and Potential Applications
Despite the promising results, the study’s small sample size and potential biological differences between cynomolgus monkeys and humans warrant caution. Confirmation of metformin’s anti-aging effects in humans requires further investigation.
The researchers are collaborating with Merck on a Phase II trial to evaluate metformin as an anti-aging drug in 120 human participants. In another recent study sponsored by the NIH, researchers found that individuals with diabetes taking metformin had a lower risk of death from COVID-19 and long COVID compared to those taking other diabetes medications. This suggests metformin’s potential value in treating long COVID.
In conclusion, while more research is needed, the potential of metformin to slow aging and combat age-related diseases is an exciting area of ongoing investigation. These studies provide compelling reasons to continue exploring metformin’s potential benefits beyond its established uses in diabetes management.
