Scientists have identified a new anti-ageing drug class that acts on gut bacteria processes, offering potential new ways to extend human lifespan.
The drugs target the Target of Rapamycin (TOR) pathway — a system in humans and other species that regulates growth and ageing and plays a central role in age-related diseases such as cancer and dementia.
The discovery helps explain how drugs can influence longevity through this pathway, which is already a major focus in ageing and cancer research.
Existing drugs such as rapamycin have shown promise in extending healthy lifespan in animals.
Researchers from Queen Mary University of London tested a next-generation drug called Rapalink-1, which inhibits TOR and is being investigated for its anti-cancer properties.
They found that Rapalink-1 not only slowed yeast cell growth but also extended lifespan, acting through the TORC1 cluster of proteins — part of the growth-promoting arm of the TOR pathway.
The study also identified a key role for gut bacteria enzymes known as agmatinases, which break down agmatine — a compound produced from the amino acid arginine — and help keep TOR activity in check.
Previous research has shown that when these enzymes lose function, cells grow faster and age prematurely.
Studies have also indicated that compounds linked to this pathway can promote longevity and benefit cells.
“By showing that agmatinases are essential for healthy ageing, we’ve uncovered a new layer of metabolic control over TOR – one that may be conserved in humans,” said Charalampos Rallis, an author of the study.
“Because agmatine is produced by diet and gut microbes, this work may help explain how nutrition and the microbiome influence ageing.”
Although agmatine supplements are already available commercially, scientists caution against taking them for growth or longevity without medical supervision.
The research suggests agmatine may be beneficial only when certain metabolic pathways related to arginine breakdown are functioning properly.
“In addition, agmatine does not always promote beneficial effects as it can contribute to certain pathologies,” Dr Rallis said.