Summary of Key Points
This article discusses a company called “Endless Ark,” which aims to combat aging and even achieve “immortality.” Instead of relying on fantastical methods, they use AI models to identify common characteristics related to aging across different species. They then test these theories through experiments with nematodes, mice, and pets (especially dogs) to identify potential targets for intervening in the aging process. The initial focus is on extending the lifespan of pets, such as large dogs, as they serve as an excellent “intermediate point” between scientific research, emotional connections, and commercial considerations. The founder, Zhao Simiao, and his team are convinced that as technology advances faster than the rate of aging, it will become possible to overcome death. They believe that only by treating aging as a disease can it be seriously studied, and they are firmly convinced that immortality is an instinctive human desire that will eventually be fulfilled.
Why Start with Pets (Dogs) for Research?
Many might wonder why the search for immortality begins with pets. This is actually a smart choice:
- Strong Emotional Resonance: Pets are part of people’s lives, and extending their lifespan would genuinely touch people’s hearts (unlike nematodes or mice, which are merely examples of advanced technology).
- High Scientific Value: Pets live with humans and share similar diets and environments, making them more susceptible to the same age-related diseases (such as cancer and inflammation) as humans. However, their shorter lifespan (typically 10–15 years) allows for faster validation of drug effects.
- Commercial Viability: No company has yet developed drugs to extend pet lifespans, but they already hold patents for a drug targeting large dogs. This drug (related to growth and development) could open the market before being applied to humans.
In short, pets represent a perfect combination of emotional connection, scientific value, and commercial potential, providing both tangible results and support for further research.
How Do AI Models Help Identify Anti-Aging Targets?
Their technical approach may sound complex, but it’s actually quite straightforward:
- Cross-Species Identification of Commonalities: Aging is not unique to any one species; there are shared genetic patterns associated with aging in nematodes, mice, dogs, and humans. AI models analyze data from these experiments to identify these common factors.
- Model Prediction and Experimental Validation: The AI suggests potential targets, which are then tested in nematode and mouse experiments. The results are fed back into the model for continuous improvement. For example, the pet drug target was identified by the AI and has been proven effective in mouse trials.
- More Efficient than Traditional Methods: Traditional research relies on scientists making trial and error, while AI can process vast amounts of data to quickly identify cross-species targets, saving time and costs.
Aging as a “World Map”: A Three-Layered Explanation
The founder compares aging to a world map, divided into three layers for easier understanding:
- Outer Layer: Organ Systems (Continents): Issues like poor nutrient absorption, chronic inflammation, and disrupted gut microbiota affect multiple organs, similar to how continents interact with each other.
- Middle Layer: Cell-to-Cell Communication (Countries): Aging cells release harmful substances that affect neighboring cells, much like how one country affects another.
- Inner Layer: Cellular Processes (Cities): Changes within cells, such as shortened telomeres, damaged mitochondria, and gene methylation, represent the underlying mechanisms of aging.
This metaphor highlights that aging is a complex chain reaction that requires a layered approach to solve.
Focusing on Solutions Rather than the Causes of Aging
The founder’s approach is unique: he doesn’t dwell on the fundamental causes of aging but instead focuses on finding effective solutions:
- The Traps of Causal Relationships: For example, a cold may seem like it’s caused by exposure to cold, but in reality, it’s the weakened immune system that allows viruses to multiply. The same goes for aging; trying to pinpoint the exact cause is endless. It’s more productive to focus on finding interventions.
- Using Gene Expression to Find Solutions: They view aging as changes in gene expression patterns and directly target these genes to alter their activity (for example, increasing or decreasing their function). This approach is similar to cutting open a bag that’s tied tightly—first solve the problem, then deal with the consequences.
- Defining Aging as a Disease: Only by treating aging as a disease will regulatory bodies like the FDA approve related research, allowing scientists to make meaningful progress. Otherwise, existing drugs for other conditions would have to be used temporarily.
The Belief of a Passionate Group
The team members are highly driven and determined:
- A Lifelong Passion: Founder Zhao Simiao has long been fascinated by the idea of immortality and became even more committed after joining the LBF organization (a group of scientists who believe in achieving immortality).
- Unafraid of Criticism: They disregard skepticism, focusing on taking action. They are inspired by characters like Zuo Ruotong from “One Under,” who believes that future generations will succeed.
- The Ultimate Goal: Giving People a Choice: Their goal is to provide people with the option to decide whether to live or die. Currently, death is easy to choose, but continuing to live is not; they aim to change this situation.
This article shows that immortality is no longer a fantasy but a realistic goal being pursued by scientists using AI and experimental methods. Although the road ahead is long, at least someone is taking serious steps toward it.