Tell me about Bonnie Halpern-Felsher

Bonnie Halpern-Felsher is a professor of pediatrics and adolescent medicine as well as a developmental psychologist at Stanford University School of Medicine. She is recognized as an expert in adolescent decision-making and risk-taking behaviors.

Rapamycin is a drug that was originally used as an anticancer agent but is now also explored for its potential to extend lifespan. It targets the molecular pathway known as mTOR (mammalian Target of Rapamycin), which is critical in controlling cell growth and metabolism.

Research, including that by Dr. Matt Kaeberlein, has been particularly focused on the effects of rapamycin on lifespan extension across various species, including dogs through his dog longevity project. Dr. Peter Attia has also discussed rapamycin extensively, exploring its implications for lifespan extension, although the specific outcomes of these explorations, including Dr. Attia's personal use, are not directly confirmed by him.

Andrew Huberman himself has noted that he currently does not take rapamycin. He points out that while the drug has proven effects for treating some cancers and possibly extending lifespan, it also carries potential side effects that he finds significant enough to avoid its use for now. Therefore, he emphasizes the importance of foundational health practices, like quality sleep, as fundamental to a long and healthy life 1.

Rapamycin has been extensively researched for its potential in lifespan extension due to its impact on the mTOR pathway (mammalian Target of Rapamycin). The following key points were highlighted in discussions about rapamycin and lifespan extension:

1. Biological Pathways: Rapamycin targets the mTOR pathway, which is involved in cell growth and metabolism. This impact is believed to play a role in the potential lifespan extension properties of the drug 1.

2. Research and Examples: Various research initiatives, such as Dr. Matt Kaeberlein's dog longevity project, have focused on using rapamycin for lifespan extension across different species. This research reflects the broader scientific exploration into the effects of rapamycin on aging and health 1.

3. Cellular Immunity: Rapamycin may enhance cellular immunity, which could contribute to its potential benefits in extending lifespan. In the context of human health, this could translate into better responses to vaccines and perhaps a decreased incidence of cancer, although definitive human data are incomplete 2.

These discussions suggest that while the potential of rapamycin for extending lifespan appears promising, it is accompanied by a need for more extensive human studies to confirm these benefits and understand the associated risks fully. It's also worth noting that the decision to use such drugs should be informed by detailed personal and medical considerations due to potential side effects 2 1.