In this episode, Jane interviews Nobel Prize winner Venki Ramakrishnan, a molecular biologist who offers a balanced perspective on the anti-aging field.

Ramakrishnan discusses various promising areas of anti-aging research, including caloric restriction drugs like rapamycin, senolytics to target senescent cells, and stem cell therapies. He emphasizes the importance of clinical trials and cautions against rushing into unproven treatments. The conversation covers lifestyle factors that can promote healthy aging, such as regular exercise, proper nutrition, and maintaining social connections.

Ramakrishnan shares personal insights, including his father’s experience of maintaining an active lifestyle until age 99. He also touches on his own career journey and winning the Nobel Prize. Throughout the interview, he stresses the need for a scientific approach to anti-aging research while acknowledging the urgency felt by many to combat aging. The podcast provides a thoughtful exploration of the current state of anti-aging science, balancing excitement for potential breakthroughs with the need for rigorous scientific validation.