A recent study published in Nature has shown that the diabetes drug metformin can slow the aging of the brain in monkeys. Researchers found that the drug preserved cognitive function and delayed the biological aging of key tissues, including the brain’s frontal lobe, lungs, kidneys, and liver. This study tracked the monkeys over several years, highlighting metformin's potential to enhance healthspan, or the number of years an organism remains healthy, even if it doesn’t extend lifespan itself.

How Metformin Protects the Brain

The researchers discovered that metformin works by activating a protein called NRF2, which helps protect cells from damage caused by inflammation and injury. This protective effect was especially noticeable in the brain, where the aging of neural tissues was slowed, contributing to better cognitive function in the treated monkeys.

The Potential for Human Use

While these findings are promising, the study only involved a small sample of male monkeys. The researchers are now working to expand this research through a 120-person human trial to see if similar effects can be observed in humans. The study’s lead scientists, in collaboration with Merck, are also pushing forward with efforts to conduct a larger trial involving 3,000 participants aged 65–79 over a six-year period to further investigate metformin’s anti-aging potential.

Key Takeaways from the Research

Metformin, a widely available and low-cost drug, has shown promise in slowing brain aging in primates. However, more extensive research is required before its effects on aging in humans can be confirmed. If successful, this could open doors to new ways of managing age-related cognitive decline and other age-associated health conditions.

This breakthrough research highlights metformin’s potential beyond diabetes management, suggesting a broader impact on age-related diseases.

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