A team at the University of Barcelona employs adeno-associated virus serotype 9 to deliver the Klotho gene in adult mice. The single-dose treatment elevates s-KL protein levels systemically and in the brain, yielding nearly 20% longer lifespans alongside preserved muscle function, bone volume and cognitive resilience. Their findings illustrate a multi-organ anti-aging approach targeting fundamental longevity processes rather than individual diseases.

Key points

• AAV9-mediated delivery of s-KL via intravenous and intracerebroventricular injections in mice
• 19.7% lifespan extension with preserved muscle, bone and cognitive functions
• Enhanced muscle regeneration, improved trabecular bone architecture and increased hippocampal neurogenesis

Why it matters: Targeting Klotho offers a unified, multi-tissue anti-aging approach that could transform longevity medicine beyond single-disease treatments.