Does the New Anti-Aging Pill TA-65 Really Work?

Depending on the dosage contained in each capsule, the first modern, scientifically tested anti-aging pill, TA-65 will cost you between $1,200 and $4,000 for a six month supply.

Studies have shown the the extract made from the chinese herb Astragalus membranaceus, also known as Astragalus propinquus, or huang qi, has the ability to extend the length of telemeres and prevent the shortening of telemeres which are located at the ends of DNA strands.

As we age telemeres, which are protective bits of protein at the end of DNA, shorten. When the telemeres become too short the cells die. This isn't necessarily bad. In the case of cancer for example, cells become immortal and never die. They just continue dividing endlessly.

Because telemere length is related to the aging of cells scientists have long hypothesized that if telemere length could be stabilized both cancer and aging could potentially be avoided.

In-vitro, or lab cultures of human cells have positively responded to the new drug TA-65. Studies done on mice have also shown a positive effect. However, in the case of the mice they didn't actually live any longer.

Another question arises due to the nature of the drug TA-65. Since TA-65 is an unreported molecule is it really effective orally, or is this drug just a get-rich-quick scheme? Is this molecule a protein, like an enzyme, or some other organic or inorganic molecule?

Enzymes are complex proteins that act as biological catalysts allowing biological processes to occur without being changed themselves. However, since they are proteins they are most likely digested by the gut. Telemerase, the enzyme that regulates telemeres would be digested. If TA-65 is digested then oral use would be ineffective. If the molecule can be absorbed upon ingestion without degradation it may be effective.

Hopefully, regardless of whether TA-65 is effective or not, science will progress in the field of anti-aging and lead to trully effective drugs which will allow people to live healthier, if not longer, lives.