A team at Fudan University demonstrates that phosphorylation at threonine 603 of the Mediator subunit MED15 by CDK1 under TGFβ signaling drives the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). Mutating T603 to alanine enhances FOXA1 binding to suppress SASP gene expression, alleviating tissue inflammation and cognitive decline in aging mice, suggesting a novel target for age-related pathologies.

Key points

• CDK1 phosphorylates MED15 at T603 under TGFβ stimulation to promote SASP gene expression and cellular senescence.
• MED15 T603A dephosphorylation mutant enhances FOXA1 binding at SASP gene promoters, reducing Pol II recruitment and inflammatory cytokine production.
• Med15 T604A knock-in mice display reduced systemic SASP factor levels, preserved hippocampal synaptic function, and improved memory and learning.

Why it matters: Modulating MED15 T603 phosphorylation could transform aging research by selectively suppressing SASP-driven inflammation and preserving cognitive function in age-related diseases.

Marie Claire's health writers compile insights from leading longevity experts like Dr Mohammed Enayat, David Vaux, and Kate Rowe-Ham, outlining eight functional exercises—such as squats, farmer’s carry, and bird dog holds—that enhance muscle strength, balance, and mobility through targeted compound movements for improved healthspan and independence.

Key points

• Farmers carry develops grip strength and balance via weighted carries to reduce fall risk.
• Compound lower-body moves like squats and walking lunges engage multiple muscle groups, boosting strength and mobility.
• Integrating mobility drills, balance holds, and short high-intensity intervals (e.g., jumping jacks) enhances cardiovascular resilience and neuromuscular coordination.

George Church and BioViva scientists retract their PNAS report on intranasal gene therapy for healthy life extension in mice due to data discrepancies in critical figures, underscoring the need for rigorous data backup and validation in longevity research.

Key points

• PNAS paper on intranasal and injectable gene therapy for life extension in mouse models suffers data inconsistencies in Figures 1 and 3.
• Discrepancies in raw datasets, uncovered via PubPeer, lead to two corrections and eventual retraction.
• Not all coauthors agreed to retract, highlighting debates over data reliability and longevity science governance.

Why it matters: This retraction underscores the essential role of data transparency and rigorous validation in advancing reliable gene therapies for healthy life extension.