In Chicago, researchers at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine are at the forefront of groundbreaking studies exploring the relationship between chronological age—the number of years a person has lived—and biological age—the condition and functionality of the body as it ages.

The Science Behind Aging

Dr. Douglas Vaughan, who leads this research at the Potocsnak Longevity Institute, emphasizes the importance of understanding this distinction. “We are in a place where the biology of aging has been demystified,” he stated. “If we can slow down aging, just a little bit, we can push back the onset of disease and extend individuals’ health spans.”

The inspiration for Vaughan’s research stems from findings in a small Amish community in Indiana, where a genetic variation prevalent in about 10% of the population appears to confer an average lifespan that is a decade longer compared to their peers.

Innovative Research Methodologies

The Longevity Institute, established in 2022, employs a comprehensive approach to its studies. Participants engage in a one-time assessment session lasting between 60 minutes to three hours, with ongoing follow-ups. These evaluations include:

• Retinal scans
• Body mass measurements using a Bod Pod
• Electrocardiograms to monitor heart function

These tests help derive an individual’s biological age, supported by advanced data analysis through artificial intelligence. Dr. Josh Cheema, a cardiologist involved in the project, notes, “Artificial intelligence gives us the opportunity to find patterns in the data that we can’t detect with our eyes or human cognition.”

Focusing on Underserved Populations

A significant aspect of this research is its commitment to include diverse and marginalized communities. Study participant Kalinda Marshall expressed the importance of representation, stating, “Being able to be a representative from a minority community is really important because I wanna know, how does this information measure up to people like me?”

Ultimately, the initiative aims to discover methods to slow the aging process, particularly among those facing socio-economic challenges and long-term health issues.

Global Collaboration and Future Directions

An international network is being planned, extending this research to multiple continents. Exciting preliminary results indicate progress, including trials for pills designed to replicate the genetic advantages found in the Amish population, which have shown similar effects in mice.

As Vaughan optimistically suggests, “Theoretically, we could bring this Amish advantage to everybody.”