Longevity Research Achieves 70% Mouse Lifespan Extension and Shows Metabolic Benefits of FGF21

Scientists reported that combining oxytocin with an Alk5 inhibitor in very old male mice extended their lifespan by more than 70 percent and improved agility, endurance and overall physical function. The finding suggests that pharmacological interventions can rejuvenate health even when started late in life, widening the potential window for anti‑aging treatments.

In a separate study, adult mice engineered to over‑express the hormone fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) in adipose tissue lived up to 3.3 years longer on a high‑fat diet. These mice resisted weight gain, showed better insulin sensitivity, reduced liver fat and inflammation, and maintained lower levels of harmful ceramides, effects that occurred independently of growth suppression. Together, the research highlights two distinct avenues—network‑medicine drug repurposing and targeted hormonal therapy—for extending healthspan in animal models.