Rapamycin can add years to your life, or none at all – it’s a lottery
New Scientist
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Rapamycin, often touted for its potential life-extending properties, doesn’t guarantee a longer lifespan for everyone—it’s more of a lottery. While studies have shown that rapamycin and calorie restriction can extend average lifespan in animals, the benefits vary widely between individuals. Some may see significant increases in lifespan, while others might not experience any noticeable difference. This variability suggests that these interventions are not universally effective, leaving their long-term impact uncertain for many.
The study, which analyzed data from 167 research papers across eight species, including fish, mice, rats, and monkeys, found that rapamycin use or calorie restriction led to longer lifespans on average. However, when examining individual responses, the benefits were inconsistent. This unpredictability highlights the challenge of predicting how these interventions will affect any given person.
Fulton emphasizes that the goal should be to "square the survival curve," meaning more individuals live longer, rather than a small group benefiting significantly while others see little change. Currently, rapamycin and fasting do not achieve this; their benefits remain unevenly distributed across populations. This realization underscores the need for further research to identify which individuals are most likely to benefit from these treatments.
Ultimately, understanding the variability in responses to rapamycin and fasting is crucial for developing personalized longevity strategies. While these interventions show promise, they are not a surefire solution for everyone. As researchers delve deeper into individual genetic and lifestyle factors, the hope is to tailor these approaches to maximize their benefits for those who need them most.
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Originally published on New Scientist on 2/25/2026