IdeaCity: Stem Cells & Longevity

Are stem cells the future scientific fountain of youth? Find out why this researcher is optimistic.

Barry Merriman is one of the speakers from IdeaCity 2015, who talked about the use of stem cells to increase human longevity. While it sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, according to Merriman it is something that could be a reality in the near future. Human Longevity Inc., the company which Merriman works for, states that they are a “genomics and cell therapy-based diagnostic and therapeutic company [that are] using advances in genomic sequencing, the human microbiome, proteomics, informatics, computing, and cell therapy technologies, [and] is building the world’s most comprehensive database on human genotypes and phenotypes to tackle the diseases associated with aging-related human biological decline.”

In layman’s terms, this means that they are looking at ways to stop age-related diseases by using our own stem cells to repair broken down, aged cells. The scientific Fountain of Youth? Not quite yet. While studies have shown a promising result of stem cell testing on mice for increased longevity, there is yet to be any certified human trials conducted.

Watch Zoomer editor Mike Crisolago’s interview with Barry Merriman below.

using advances in genomic sequencing, the human microbiome, proteomics, informatics, computing, and cell therapy technologies, [and] is building the world’s most comprehensive database on human genotypes and phenotypes to tackle the diseases associated with aging-related human biological decline.”

In layman’s terms, this means that they are looking at ways to stop age-related diseases by using our own stem cells to repair broken down, aged cells. The scientific Fountain of Youth? Not quite yet. While studies have shown a promising result of stem cell testing on mice for increased longevity, there is yet to be any certified human trials conducted.

Watch Zoomer editor Mike Crisolago’s interview with Barry Merriman below.

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For more with Mr. Merriman and the endless possibilities of where stem cell research could lead us, see his whole IdeaCity talk here.

What do you think about the possibility to extend your life by 20-30 years? Would you do anything differently? Let us know in the comments, or connect with us on social media by using the hashtag #EZExtraYears.