Gene therapy for aging: Current evidence and future directions.

Abstract

The global aging population presents a pressing challenge, highlighting the urgent need for interventions that target the fundamental mechanisms of aging. Gene therapy, leveraging its success in treating monogenic and aging-related diseases such as progeria and neurodegenerative disorders, has emerged as a promising strategy. It holds the potential not only to mitigate specific age-related pathologies but also to robustly extend healthspan. Although preclinical studies have shown encouraging results in mitigating aging phenotypes across multiple organ systems such as nervous, muscular, circulatory, and immune systems, existing research remains fragmented. This review comprehensively synthesizes evidence supporting gene therapy as a systemic strategy to combat core aging processes, promote multi-organ rejuvenation, and prolong healthspan. A deeper understanding of the role of gene therapy in delaying aging and extending lifespan could provide critical insights to guide translational strategies and revolutionize the treatment of age-related decline. Furthermore, we critically examine the formidable barriers to clinical implementation, including immunogenicity, off-target effects, and the complex socioeconomic and regulatory hurdles that must be navigated to transition these therapies from bench to bedside.