In a groundbreaking approach to the study of ageing, Life Biosciences is focused on targeting the underlying biology of ageing to restore and prolong one's healthspan, challenging the conventional belief that ageing is solely a result of wear and tear on the body. By understanding the discrete set of biological mechanisms behind ageing, Life Biosciences aims to develop therapies that can improve healthspan and maximize the number of healthy years individuals have in their lifetime.

Healthspan, unlike lifespan, measures the number of healthy years an individual lives. As we age, our health inevitably declines, leaving us more susceptible to various diseases. Life Biosciences recognizes the importance of extending the period of optimal health and productivity during the ageing process.

Through their research in cellular rejuvenation, Life Biosciences is at the forefront of drug development. Cellular rejuvenation focuses on restoring aged and injured cells to a more youthful and resilient state, ultimately addressing a wide range of age-related diseases. By targeting the epigenome, specifically through partial epigenetic reprogramming, Life Biosciences aims to modify gene expression and alleviate dysregulated gene expression that occurs with age.

The efficacy of cellular rejuvenation has been demonstrated in preclinical studies involving mice and non-human primates. In a recent study, Life Biosciences and their collaborators successfully restored visual function in the retinal ganglion cells of non-human primates, proving the potential of cellular rejuvenation in treating age-related optic neuropathies.

Life Biosciences initially chose to focus on eye diseases because these conditions are often linked to ageing as a major risk factor. The company is currently targeting non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) and primary open-angle glaucoma, where there is a significant need for effective treatments.

Looking ahead, Life Biosciences plans to advance to the clinical trial stage with their lead therapeutic, OSK, which has shown promising results in preclinical studies. The company aims to initiate human clinical trials in their lead indications by 2025, marking a significant milestone for the field of cellular rejuvenation.

Beyond eye diseases, Life Biosciences sees the potential for cellular rejuvenation to address a wide range of age-related diseases. Promising preclinical data supports the exploration of its application in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease and frontotemporal dementia, as well as other ophthalmic disorders such as dry age-related macular degeneration and retinal degeneration.

With experienced CEO Jerry McLaughlin at the helm, Life Biosciences has the expertise and drive necessary to revolutionize the field of ageing biology and pave the way for innovative therapies that can prolong healthspan and enhance overall well-being. As the company continues to make advancements, the prospect of a future where individuals can live longer, healthier lives becomes increasingly tangible.

In a society where the emphasis is often placed solely on increasing lifespan, Life Biosciences is shifting the focus towards enhancing healthspan, opening up new frontiers in the fight against ageing and age-related diseases.