A new development from a Chinese start-up, Lonvi Biosciences, claims to have created a pill that could potentially extend the average human lifespan to an extraordinary 150 years. The Shenzhen-based company has developed a unique formula designed to target what scientists refer to as “zombie cells.” These are ageing cells that do not die off and can contribute to inflammation and age-related diseases.
The CEO of Lonvi Biosciences, Ip Zhu, has made bold assertions about the pill, stating, “This is not just another pill. This is the Holy Grail.” The primary active ingredient in this formulation is derived from grape seeds and is known as procyanidin C1 (PCC1). Preliminary research indicates that this compound has successfully prolonged lifespans in laboratory animals by delaying the onset of diseases associated with ageing.
In trials conducted on mice, Lonvi claims that the PCC1 treatment resulted in an overall lifespan increase of 9.4%, with an impressive 64% extension observed from the first day of dosing. The company’s chief technology officer, Lyu Qinghua, expressed optimism in an interview with The New York Times, stating that living to 150 years is “definitely realistic” and could be achievable “in a few years.”
Rising Focus on Longevity Research in China
The Chinese government has prioritized anti-ageing research in recent years, a topic reportedly discussed by President Xi Jinping with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin. The country has recognized longevity research as key to its technological advancements, placing it alongside artificial intelligence and biotechnology. As a result, the longevity sector has transitioned from a niche interest to a burgeoning industry.
Investment in longevity research has surged, reflecting a shift in public perception. One co-founder from Shanghai noted that discussions around longevity were once exclusive to wealthy Americans, but now, there is a growing interest in China. Companies are emerging with a focus on various aspects of ageing, from disease prevention to enhancing cellular energy.
Lonvi’s PCC1 capsule is positioned not only as a means to extend lifespan but also as a way to improve overall quality of life by mitigating the physical decline commonly associated with ageing. Despite the promising claims, it is important to note that all research to date remains confined to laboratory settings, with no human trials conducted to validate the assertions made by the company.
As the landscape of longevity research continues to evolve, Lonvi Biosciences stands at the forefront, aiming to revolutionize our understanding of ageing and its implications for human health. The potential impact of such advancements could reshape societal views on life expectancy and health in the coming decades.
