Researchers recently discovered a hormone that may extend your life. Thus far this hormone has only extended the life of several mice, however it may help scientists develop new drugs that can expand our lives as well. Wouldn't it be great if scientists discovered the real life fountain of youth? The idea may not be as far fetched as we once believed.
The Fountain Of Youth The hormone recently identified by researchers is a natural substance produced by all mammals. That means human beings produce this hormone. In theory this hormone or some derivative thereof may reduce or suppress the aging process in humans in the years to come. Of course, research is still in its preliminary phase. Researchers have a long road ahead of them before they can claim they have discovered a valid anti-aging hormone that can suppress aging in humans. Scientist's future goals include investigating whether a manufactured substance or the hormone itself may help extend human's lives. If nothing else, this incredible discovery may help researchers better understand what happens to our bodies as we age.
The Klotho Protein In this study, a mouse with a high level of Klotho protein showed much fewer signs of aging than mice deficient in the same hormone. The National Institute Of Aging has expressed their delight and excitement regarding this discovery. It may help promote creation of molecules or natural hormones that can help promote healthier aging. What does that mean? While researchers aren't yet sure if the Klotho protein will actually extend our lives, it may help reduce the severity of age related illnesses.
Researchers now hope that the discovery of this molecule may help scientists better understand the aging from the molecular level. This may help researchers uncover new treatment therapies for people suffering from age related illnesses. In this particular research, scientists discovered that animals with overly active Klotho genes tended to live up to 30 percent longer than those with a normal level or deficiency of the gene. This suggests that the gene may suppress aging.
Thus far testing is limited to animals and experiments involving living cells. Researchers have concentrated their efforts on understanding how this gene may help regulate all living organisms life spans. Studies promisingly suggest that this gene may suppress aging.
The next step in research may involve injecting the gene directly into mice to see whether they live longer. Researchers must also begin measuring how much of this hormone is present and humans, and whether the amount of hormone present is relevant to a person's longevity. There is ample evidence connecting age-related diseases to deficiencies of certain genes or variations thereof. Therefore one may reasonably conclude that some link does exist between this gene and our aging process. Illnesses and diseases that this discovery may impact include osteoporosis, stroke, Parkinson's and heart disease, all age related illnesses. It is possible researchers will find that a manufactured protein may work better than the gene itself for suppressing aging in humans.
Of course, playing with the human body isn't without risk or complications. Excess levels of this hormone may reduce the efficiency of insulin production in humans. Other side effects have yet to be uncovered by researchers. The good news? We are definitely making progress toward slowing or even suppressing aging. Who knows, maybe in a few years we'll truly unlock the secrets of a natural fountain of youth.

About the Author
Dr. James Brann is a board certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist and a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. He is also the Editor of Women's Healthcare Topics.com http://www.womenshealthcaretopics.com
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