The critical role of stem cells in longevity medicine
July 23, 2024
At the 5th International Integrative Medicine Conference 2024, themed "Healthspan - The Science and Art of Wellbeing," Professor Dato Sri Dr Mike Chan (pix), Founder of EW Global, delivered an enlightening talk on "Longevity medicine through healthspan via cellspan." Organized by the Association of Integrative Medicine Malaysia (AIMM), the conference gathered experts from various fields to discuss integrative approaches to health and wellbeing.
Understanding the aging process The aging process begins as early as age 18, with various body systems starting to deteriorate. By age 50, critical organs such as the colon, diaphragm, gallbladder, hypothalamus, kidneys, mouth, pituitary gland, and parathyroid gland show signs of aging. The adrenal glands, capillaries, ears, genitals, liver, and prostate start to age at 60, followed by the heart at 65, and the brain at 70. The human body contains 37.2 trillion life cells, and we are born with one stem cell for every 10,000 life cells. However, by age 18, we only have 45% of our stem cells left. This number dwindles to 25% by age 30 and plummets to 5% by age 60. The importance of healthspan Healthspan refers to the period of life spent in good health. Longevity is important, but it depends on healthspan. Without quality healthspan, one cannot live long. Adding years to life is meaningless without adding life to years. The quality of cells, or 'cellspan,' is vital for extending healthspan and ensuring a better quality of life. Types of stem cells and their sources Dr Mike Chan outlined the various types of stem cells and their sources:
Innovations and applications Dr Mike Chan further discussed recent advancements in the field, including the potential reversal of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and improvements in diabetes management. "American and Israeli scientists have shown that CKD can be partially reversed, and isolating islet cells in the pancreas has been improving diabetes management in Germany and Switzerland for the last 30 years," he noted. Precision medicine and stem cell application Dr Mike Chan emphasized the necessity of using specific stem cells to target specific organs. "There are 400 different types of cells and stem cells in the body. To regenerate specific organs, specific stem cells, peptides, or exosomes need to be used. Caution is necessary against the misconception that one type of stem cell can treat all diseases, highlighting the importance of precision medicine," he explained. The future of stem cell research Countries like Japan, Switzerland, and Germany are leading the way in stem cell research. Japan has been a pioneer in xenotransplantation, while Switzerland and Germany have advanced the use of sheep and rabbit stem cells. Dr Mike Chan highlighted that there are 400 different types of precursor or progenitor stem cells, each serving a specific function. The role of stem cells in longevity Dr Mike Chan underscored the need to supplement, stimulate, and replace stem cells to maintain health and delay the aging process. "By the age of 60, only 5% of your stem cells are left. It is crucial to understand that without stem cells, you cannot regenerate your organs, and your body will age rapidly," he warned. Common signs of aging and reversing biological age He addressed common signs of aging, such as hair loss, blurry vision, and forgetfulness, stressing the importance of reversing biological age to improve quality of life. "Aging cannot be stopped, but its progression can be delayed through targeted interventions," he asserted. Debunking myths about stem cells Dr Mike Chan dispelled the myth that stem cells can help one stay young forever. "Stem cells can reverse aging by 6 to 16 years, but this should be scientifically proven through glycan tests or protein tests," he clarified. The role of exosomes In Malaysia, exosomes have become a popular topic, especially in the aesthetic industry. There are over 400 different types of exosomes, each serving a specific purpose, so it is important to use the right type of exosome for the right treatment. Living to 120: A possibility? Dr Mike Chan discussed the potential for humans to live to 120 years with annual stem cell replacements. He highlighted that humans begin to age as early as age 18, with the spine starting to age at 11. "The only way to reverse aging is through replacement, stimulation, and regeneration of stem cells," he stated. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing stress Dr Mike Chan emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing stress to preserve stem cell function. "Cancer is a disease of stress, and stress causes hormonal changes that affect stem cell function," he explained. He also discussed the need for personalized treatment plans for conditions like Parkinson's disease. "Each patient requires a specific type of stem cell treatment based on their condition," he noted. |
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