Unfortunately, our pets can’t live forever, as much as we want them to. But a new drug in clinical testing might keep them around for just a bit longer.
Specifically, the drug rapamycin is being tested for its longevity properties in dogs, according to Nature. If the name sounds familiar, that’s because it’s a common drug used as an immunosuppressant. But the possible longevity boost it gives Fido is a new idea.
Essentially, it’s been found to increase the lifespans of lab mice. What’s not clear, precisely, is why. Some argue that it simply addresses the problems that come with aging, such as certain cancers. Others argue it might have an effect on the cells themselves. Regardless, researchers at the University of Washington in Seattle would like to see if low doses work in dogs. They’re planning on assembling a test group of thirty large dogs, aged six to nine, and giving them doses of the drug to see if it improves heart function and other markers of aging in dogs.
If it works, it would be good news to many dog owners. The bigger the dog, the shorter its lifespan, and ask any pet owner, knowing that doesn’t make it easier. This wouldn’t make a big dog immortal, but it can potentially use a common, non-patentable drug to give pets a happier, longer life. That’s a good use of science in our book.