The Youth Pill: Scientists at the Brink of an Anti-Aging Revolution
The possibility of even a decade more of healthy longevity still makes for an engaging study of recent breakthroughs in gerontology. Former Wall Street Journal science reporter Stipp surveys contending theories of aging--such as antioxidants--and their pitfalls before focusing on promising research into the so-called CR mimetics, drugs that mimic the possibly life-extending benefits of calorie restriction without the unpleasant semistarvation. (Lab mice, rejoice: the CR mimetic resveratrol may even prevent cancer and keep your coat glossy.) The book morphs into a business potboiler, with researchers forming biotech startups and selling IPOs--adding hype but little light to the story. But if this is a more conventional and prosaic account than Jonathan WeinerÖs in Long for This World, StippÖs lucid and spry exposition of the science is tantalizing enough on its own.Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.