For sexual reproduction to yield healthy offspring, newly generated oocytes—immature egg cells—must receive the correct amount of DNA after cell division. This process of segregating chromosomes becomes more prone to failure as we age. Now, RIKEN researchers have identified a strategy that could help to prevent such errors and restore healthy production of oocytes.

Oocytes are produced by a cell-division process known as meiosis, during which every chromosome is duplicated. These replicates form X-shaped structures in which the chromosomes are joined via structures called centromeres, where a protein called cohesin locks chromosome copies together.

As division proceeds, protein fibers called microtubules spread from opposite poles of the dividing cell, attaching to each chromosome. These microtubules eventually pull the two apart, so that each newly formed cell receives one copy of each chromosome.

For decades, the field of biogerontology has largely focused on a single strategy: manipulating metabolism to slow down the rate at which we age. While approaches like caloric restriction have produced fascinating results in short-lived organisms like worms and flies, they have shown clear limits in mammals. Slowing the accumulation of damage does not remove the damage that is already there. It merely delays (not prevents) the onset of disease, particularly when applied late in life.

At the 2026 Biotech Showcase during JPM Week, Immortabio revealed new data from an established aging mouse model.

The results were striking.

Senovax alone improved outcomes.
Stem cells alone performed even better.

But when combined, the therapy doubled lifespan.

Mayo Clinic researchers have identified a drug-and-supplement combination therapy that is capable of reducing the harmful effects of senescent cells – also known as “zombie cells” – in diabetic kidney disease.

In eBioMedicine, a publication of The Lancet, the team reported that the combination of the cancer drug dasatanib and a naturally occurring substance known as quercetin decreased inflammation and boosted protective factors in the kidney.

Diabetic kidney disease affects more than 12 million people in the U.S. and is the leading cause of kidney failure. While newer treatments can delay loss of kidney function, there is currently no cure.