Swiss Scientists Find Youth Proteins in Centenarians
Swiss researchers identified "youthful" blood proteins in select centenarians, suggesting natural longevity ties to specific protein profiles that could guide future anti-aging therapies. The February 2026 Rejuvenation Roundup highlights new clinical trials for senolytic drugs targeting aging cells and advances in gene therapy, with rejuvenation clinics becoming increasingly feasible.
The "SWISS100" study was a multi-disciplinary effort by the University of Geneva and the University of Lausanne, analyzing 724 proteins in the blood of 39 centenarians. Researchers, led by Flavien Delhaes, found 37 proteins where the profiles of 100-to-105-year-olds more closely resembled those of young adults than of octogenarians. A primary finding was the centenarians' remarkably low oxidative stress. This indicates their bodies produce fewer damaging free radicals to begin with, rather than simply being better at producing antioxidant defenses to fight them off. Beyond antioxidants, the identified proteins are involved in other key longevity areas. At least three help regulate the extracellular matrix—the structural "cement" for the body's cells—while others may play roles in tumor prevention and metabolic balance. The senolytic drugs mentioned in recent trials, such as the combination of Dasatinib and Quercetin, work by specifically targeting and eliminating senescent cells. These are damaged "zombie" cells that, instead of dying, linger and release toxic substances that damage surrounding healthy cells. Gene therapies for aging are advancing beyond theory, with some approaches showing dramatic results in animal models. One 2024 study using OSK gene reprogramming—a method of returning cells to a more youthful state—increased the median remaining lifespan in mice by 109%. Other gene therapy targets include increasing the protein klotho to improve cognition and using telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) to lengthen telomeres, the protective caps on the ends of chromosomes that shorten with age. The rejuvenation clinic sector is expanding rapidly, with market size projections for aesthetic clinics expected to grow from $38.19 billion in 2023 to over $136 billion by 2033. This growth is fueled by demand for non-invasive procedures like laser treatments and injectables, and a rising trend of "prejuvenation" among younger clients.
