By Jennifer Mishler
A team of scientists believe they have created a drug that may be the key to a longer life. Until the drug is approved for use in humans, it may be tested on your furry friends.
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According to the story in the Daily Mail, the drug works by protecting telomeres, or sections of DNA believed to be the key to affecting the aging process, thereby increasing lifespan. However, the drug is still not considered safe for humans, and may be tested by adding it to pet foods.
Dr. Bill Andrews, head of the team of researchers and founder of Sierra Sciences, says that this could be a medical milestone. “Inducing cells to produce telomerase would be a great medical advance,” Dr Andrews said. The substances we have found can achieve this but we have to be cautious and there is no chance of getting medical approval for human use for some years. For pets, however, the rules are much less stringent – and the market is potentially huge.”
There is already a big market for increasing and improving the lives of beloved pets. New medications are available to improve quality of life for older dogs and cats, and there are even exercise machines made for pets! But how do you feel about the new drug being tested out on your animal buddies?
Article courtesy of ecorazzi.com