Fasting, Autophagy & Calorie Restriction VS Longevity Drugs w/ Dr. Peter Attia

mTOR Inhibition

The exploration of mTOR inhibition reveals its potential as a significant mechanism for extending lifespan. Peter Attia shares the intriguing history of rapamycin, a compound discovered on Easter Island, which was initially developed as an immune suppressant. He explains how its ability to suppress mTOR has led to groundbreaking studies showing increased lifespan in mice, with males living 9% longer and females 13% longer 1.

Rapamycin, to me, probably the most interesting compound when it comes to longevity.

--- Peter Attia

These findings have sparked further research across multiple species, highlighting rapamycin's potential in longevity science.

   

Autophagy & Health

Autophagy plays a crucial role in promoting health and longevity, intersecting with the effects of rapamycin and fasting. Peter Attia notes that both fasting and rapamycin reduce mTOR activity, leading to increased autophagy and other beneficial effects like reduced inflammation and enhanced mitophagy 2. He highlights rapamycin's FDA approval for immune suppression, particularly in organ transplant patients, due to its antiproliferative properties 3.

The only two things that seem to uniformly, if done more or less correctly, impose longevity are rapamycin and some degree of fasting.

--- Peter Attia

This intersection of mechanisms underscores the potential of these interventions in extending lifespan and improving health.