Is there genuine potential for human lifespan to exceed 150 years, a question ignited by the discourse between Putin and Xi regarding immortality?

In a groundbreaking conversation during a Beijing summit on September 6, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping raised the intriguing question of whether humans could potentially live past 150 years or even become immortal.

This discussion was sparked by Putin's suggestion that by regularly replacing misfiring organs, people could theoretically become younger. However, this idea has been met with criticism from mainstream scientists. Eric Boulanger, a professor of biology and ageing at France's Lille University, described the idea as "pure madness."

The scientific community has expressed concerns about such efforts, warning they lack scientific rigour and could even be dangerous. The focus, according to researchers, should be on extending the number of years in good health rather than aiming for immortality.

Despite the scepticism, recent scientific advances have raised hopes we could one day fight back against ageing, particularly in the field of epigenetics. Research shows that human aging can be influenced and possibly delayed by modifying epigenetic mechanisms and lifestyle factors. Promising approaches involve geroprotective drugs like metformin, rapamycin, and resveratrol, as well as lifestyle changes that impact gene expression and biological age to promote healthy longevity.

One such drug, rapamycin, has shown promising results. Research published in the journal Aging Cell in June found that the drug, which appears to affect epigenetic ageing, has helped extend the lifespan of several animals, including mice.

The idea of humans living forever is not supported by scientific evidence at this time. In fact, some researchers have warned that data about extreme longevity could be misleading due to cases of forged birth certificates.

The pursuit of longevity has attracted the interest of several high-profile figures, including tech entrepreneur Bryan Johnson, who has set himself the goal of eternal life and has tested many anti-ageing theories, techniques, and trends on himself. The Silicon Valley-led transhumanist movement, including billionaire Peter Thiel, has also shown interest in longevity projects.

Notably, Putin himself has shown interest in the field, with Russia launching a 38-billion-ruble (RM1.9 billion) project last year focused on regenerative medicine and longevity.

As the conversation around human longevity continues, it's important to remember that the focus should be on extending healthy years, rather than striving for immortality. After all, mortality rates eventually level off, meaning a 115-year-old is no more at risk of dying than someone aged 105. The record for the oldest confirmed age still stands with Jeanne Calment, who died at the age of 122 in 1997.

As research progresses, we may one day find ways to significantly extend human lifespan. But for now, the quest for immortality remains a fascinating, if unproven, idea.

Is there genuine potential for human lifespan to exceed 150 years, a question ignited by the discourse between Putin and Xi regarding immortality?