The Future Trend of Longevity: How Smart Investors and Entrepreneurs can Capitalize on Longer Life Spans

The quest for longevity has captivated humans for centuries, but only in recent decades have we begun to approach this ambition with scientific rigor. Only lately did personalities such as Bryan Johnson popularize the emerging trend and the awareness of a health and longevity conscious lifestyle.

Longevity, in its simplest form, refers to the length of an individual’s life. While historical efforts to extend life have often focused on preventing early death through improved hygiene, medical care, and nutrition, modern longevity research seeks to extend the upper limits of human lifespan. This involves delaying the onset of age-related diseases, reversing cellular aging processes, and enhancing overall vitality in later years.

Today, advancements in artificial intelligence, particularly the – yet hypothetical but ever more likely – emergence of artificial general intelligence (AGI) are poised to revolutionize the understanding and manipulation of the aging process, which is often seen as a disease itself by longevity researchers.

This briefing explores the burgeoning trend of longevity, clarifies how AGI can serve as a catalyst for breakthroughs, and identifies business opportunities that forward-thinking investors and entrepreneurs can seize today to benefit from an era of significantly extended human lifespans.

Current State of Research

The field of longevity research has evolved dramatically over the past few decades, transitioning from a niche scientific curiosity to a mainstream area of study with significant implications for public health and economic development.

Advances in molecular biology, genomics, and artificial intelligence have propelled this field forward, enabling researchers to uncover the complex biological mechanisms underlying aging and develop potential interventions to extend both lifespan and healthspan.

Key areas of focus include the study of telomeres, senescent cells, and mitochondrial function, as well as the development of senolytic drugs and gene therapies.

Prominent figures in longevity research include David Sinclair, a professor at Harvard Medical School, known for his work on sirtuins and NAD+ precursors like NMN and Resveratrol, which are believed to play a role in cellular health and longevity.

Aubrey de Grey, a biomedical gerontologist and co-founder of the SENS Research Foundation, advocates for a comprehensive approach to combating aging through regenerative medicine and the repair of cellular damage.

Other notable researchers include Nir Barzilai of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, who is leading the TAME (Targeting Aging with Metformin) trial, and George Church of Harvard University, who is exploring gene editing technologies to reverse aging processes.

The integration of artificial intelligence into longevity research has further accelerated discoveries. AI-driven platforms are being used to analyze vast datasets, model biological processes, and predict the outcomes of aging interventions, significantly reducing the time and cost associated with traditional research methods. This technological synergy is exemplified by the work of researchers like Alex Zhavoronkov, CEO of Insilico Medicine, who is leveraging AI to identify new anti-aging compounds and develop personalized longevity treatments.

The current state of longevity research is marked by a collaborative and interdisciplinary approach, with significant contributions from academia, industry, and private investors. Conferences and summits, such as the Longevity Summit and the Global Longevity Federation, provide platforms for sharing cutting-edge research and fostering collaborations among scientists, entrepreneurs, and investors.

Longevity + AGI

Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) will represent a paradigm shift in computational capability, offering unparalleled potential to drive breakthroughs in longevity research. Unlike narrow AI, which excels in specific tasks such as text analysis and creation, AGI will possess the ability to understand, learn, and apply knowledge across a broad range of domains – being a specialist in each of them. This versatility makes an AGI uniquely suited to tackle the complex, multifaceted nature of aging.

Aubrey de Grey argues that achieving "longevity escape velocity" – the point when we can effectively live indefinitely – could be even more transformative for humanity than the advent of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) or the Singularity – which is the emergence of a superintelligent AI – itself.

Longevity research, a field dedicated to understanding and potentially extending the human lifespan, has been an area of intense scientific inquiry for decades. Despite significant investments and the accumulation of a vast body of knowledge, progress towards dramatically extending human life has been incremental at best. The complexity of aging, with its myriads of interrelated biological processes and genetic factors, has proven to be a formidable challenge. Current interventions, ranging from pharmaceuticals to lifestyle modifications, have only achieved modest extensions in lifespan and healthspan.

It seems that at this juncture, an Artificial General Intelligence system, with its vast computational power and ability to rapidly process and synthesize information across multiple domains, could potentially unlock the secrets of aging and pave the way for achieving longevity escape velocity.

AGI-Driven Breakthrough in Longevity Research

From first principles thinking, an AGI will deconstruct the complex challenge of prolonging life and that of aging into their most fundamental components and then reassemble them from the ground up. This approach means breaking down the biological processes of aging to their core mechanisms–cellular senescence, DNA damage, telomere attrition, and more.

By analyzing vast amounts of biological data and complex biological processes that underlie aging, an AGI could identify the key mechanisms that drive age-related decline and develop targeted interventions to halt or reverse these processes.

First and foremost, an AGI would likely begin by rapidly assimilating and integrating all existing knowledge and research on aging, biology, genetics, and related fields. It will generate a comprehensive model of the human body at the molecular level, incorporating data from genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and other omics fields. It will decode the complex biological processes that contribute to aging, such as telomere shortening, accumulation of senescent cells, and the decline in mitochondrial function. As an AGI will be capable of advanced pattern recognition capabilities, it will identify subtle biomarkers of aging, allowing for earlier detection and interventions which human researchers and doctors might overlook.

With such an extensive model of the human body, the AGI can simulate accurately the effects of various interventions and therapies – such as genetic engineering, stem cell therapies, or nanomedicine – on the aging process, thereby rapidly identifying promising candidates for further research. Its computational prowess will simulate the effects of potential anti-aging interventions with a degree of accuracy and speed unattainable by human capabilities. 

The pursuit of longevity escape velocity will likely involve the convergence of multiple cutting-edge technologies, with AGI serving as the integrating force. Advances in fields such as nanotechnology, biotechnology, and robotics could all contribute to the goal of extending human lifespan indefinitely.

For example, AGI-designed nanobots could be deployed within the body to perform targeted repairs at the cellular and molecular level, removing senescent cells or repairing damaged DNA in real-time. These nanobots could be programmed to monitor and maintain the integrity of our biological systems, ensuring optimal function over an extended lifespan. Or it might create advanced gene therapies that can selectively target and modify the genes associated with age-related diseases.

In addition to biological interventions, AGI could also pioneer advancements in regenerative medicine, leveraging stem cells and advanced tissue engineering techniques to grow and replace aging or damaged organs and tissues. This could potentially lead to the development of personalized organ replacements or even the ability to regrow entire limbs or organs. It might unlock the secrets of stem cell biology, enabling the regeneration of tissues and organs without the risk of rejection associated with current methods.

Finally, AGI could contribute to the development of a comprehensive understanding of the human brain, potentially leading to breakthroughs in neuroregeneration and cognitive enhancement. This would not only extend life but also ensure that extended life spans are matched with sustained mental acuity, well-being, and potentially a drastically enhanced biological human intelligence.

The Philosophical Impact

Let’s go back to Aubrey de Grey who argues that achieving the longevity escape velocity and being able to live forever will be more impactful and drastic for human society than achieving AGI or the Singularity itself.

Why does he think so?

What It Means to be Human

First, the inevitability of death has been a defining aspect of the human condition since the dawn of our species. It has shaped our cultures, philosophies, and the very way we perceive and experience life. Being suddenly able to live forever would fundamentally alter the core aspect of human existence, leading to a profound shift in our collective consciousness and understanding of what it means to be human. Our entire existence has been shaped by the inevitability of death, and the removal of this constraint would force us to reevaluate our priorities, values, and goals. It would challenge us to find new sources of meaning and purpose in a world where time is no longer a scarce resource.

Human Potential

With indefinite lifespans, human potential may be unleashed to its fullest. With the ability to live forever, individuals would have the opportunity to accumulate vast amounts of knowledge, experience, and expertise over the course of their extended lifetimes. This could lead to an explosion in spirituality, creativity, philosophy, and discovery.

Social Structures

With the longevity escape velocity will come a radical restructuring of social institutions and norms. Traditional concepts of family, marriage, and reproduction will likely be reimagined in a world where individuals live for centuries. New forms of social organization and governance may emerge to accommodate the needs and desires of a population that no longer faces the constraints of a finite lifespan.

Existential Philosophical Implications

Perhaps most profoundly, ending aging would force us to confront fundamental questions about the nature of existence and the meaning of life. This could lead to a new era of spiritual growth, self-actualization, and the pursuit of higher-order goals and values.

While the development of AGI would undoubtedly have far-reaching and exciting outcomes, the achievement of human longevity could be even more transformative in terms of its impact on the human experience. It would challenge us to redefine what it means to be human.

Societal Impact of Extended Lifespans

The societal impact of extended human lifespans to 120-140 years or potentially indefinite lifespans would be transformative across multiple domains.

Here are some key areas that would experience significant disruption:

Healthcare and Social Services

Assuming that with extended lifespans come along with equally extended healthspans, we would not expect a dramatic increase in the demand for healthcare services for age-related conditions and chronic diseases. Quite the opposite: the healthcare system would need to shift from a model of disease treatment to one of proactive health maintenance. Chronic conditions would become less prevalent, altering the demand for medical services and pharmaceuticals.

Workforce and Retirement

With people remaining healthy and productive for longer periods, the traditional concept of retirement may need to be redefined. Individuals could pursue multiple careers or continue working well into their 80s or 90s. This could lead to a more experienced and knowledgeable workforce but also the full realization of human potential with a rise in polymaths. With a significantly improved health until death, the concept of retirement might become redundant at all once.

Family Structures and Relationships

Extended lifespans could significantly alter family structures and dynamics. Some individuals may have multiple fulfilled marriages or partnerships over their extended lifetimes. Generational relationships could become more complex, with great-geat-grandparents and great-great-geat-grandparents coexisting and potentially co-living with their descendants. Multi-generational households might become more common all while challenging traditional notions of familial roles and responsibilities.

Business and Investment Opportunities

Today, AI is already at the cusp of processing and analyzing environmental and lifestyle data to identify the optimal combination of diet, exercise, and environmental factors for each individual.

Even though the achievement of the longevity escape velocity is still a theoretical concept, even current advancements in pre-AGI artificial intelligence and personalized health and longevity strategies will extend human life-span palpable. While not for centuries, today’s younger generations can still expect to live several decades longer than is the norm today. Anyone who is below the age of 50 might – assuming a disciplined health-conscious life – live up to 120 and well beyond.

While the longevity escape velocity is still theoretical, we can confidently predict significantly higher life-expectancies in the future.

This gives forward-thinking entrepreneurs and investors a unique window of opportunity to lay the groundwork for a future where human lifespan is considerably extended.

First and most obviously, entrepreneurs and investors can actively shape this future by investing in and developing the technologies that will form the backbone of longevity research and AGI development. This includes areas such as biotechnology, nanotechnology, AI, and data analytics, which are all critical to understanding and treating the biological process of aging.

Companies that focus on developing anti-aging therapies, gene editing technologies, and regenerative medicine stand to benefit immensely. Startups leveraging AI for drug discovery and personalized medicine are particularly well-positioned. Notable examples include Alex Zhavoronkov’s Insilico Medicine, Calico Labs, a Google-backed company aiming to understand the biology of aging, or Unity Biotechnology, which targets cellular senescence.

However, by reimagining how we live with multiple or dozens of generations sustainably together will lead us to other promising business opportunities.

How do we reinvent universities that offer lifelong learning, create new spiritual and philosophical spaces aimed at achieving spiritual growth and enlightenment, and ultimately how can space travel and explore the infinite universe?

Generational Co-Living

Imagine communities where architecture and nature are intertwined, designed to support the human circadian rhythm and foster intergenerational living. These co-living spaces would be built in harmony with the environment, featuring natural light, biophilic design elements, and communal gardens that encourage interaction among residents of all ages.

Entrepreneurs today can start real estate companies that specialize in creating these circadian rhythm-centric co-living spaces today. The business can build real estate for communities that are self-sustaining, with closed-loop systems for water, waste, and energy. These living spaces are designed to minimize ecological footprints while accommodating the needs of a growing population that lives longer. The business would focus on sustainable construction practices, using materials and designs that promote health and well-being. Services could include community programs that encourage skill-sharing and social bonding across many generations, as well as integrated health and wellness facilities that cater – for the time being – to the needs of a diverse age demographic.

Lifelong Learning Universities

Envision universities that serve as lifelong learning hubs, where education is not confined to early life but is an ongoing journey. These institutions would offer modular courses and personal mentorship, adaptable to the evolving interests and career needs of students who may span centuries in age, facilitated by cutting-edge technology and personalized learning paths.

Entrepreneurs today can start new categories of educational institutions that provide a subscription-based model for lifelong learning. This university would offer courses and education in any imaginable area, accompanied by personal companions of human professors and industry leaders who focus on providing mentorship instead of knowledge. 

Philosophy Clubs

Picture a network of philosophy clubs that act as intellectual salons, where individuals gather to discuss the big questions of life, spirituality, ethics, and human progress. These clubs would be sanctuaries for debate and reflection, encouraging the development of wisdom and moral reasoning in a rapidly changing world.

Entrepreneurs today can establish a chain of philosophy clubs that operate on a membership model, providing access to personal spaces, curated events, discussions, and resources. These clubs could host renowned thinkers and offer virtual reality experiences that simulate historical philosophical debates, making the exploration of philosophy accessible and engaging for a modern audience.

Spaces for Meditation and Spiritual Enlightenment

Imagine spaces dedicated to meditation and spiritual enlightenment, designed to be sanctuaries of peace and personal growth. These centers would offer quiet spaces for meditation, retreats, workshops, and daily practices to help individuals explore their inner worlds and connect with a sense of purpose and tranquility.

Entrepreneurs today can develop a wellness brand that creates dedicated spaces for meditation and spiritual realization in urban and natural settings alike. The business could offer tiered memberships for access to the spaces, to various programs, one-on-one coaching, and community events. It could also incorporate biometric feedback technology to help individuals track their progress and deepen their meditation practice.

Space Travel

Envision a future where human longevity is infinite. People will be excited to use the technological advancements to travel space – for the exploration of space or merely as space tourism with the aim of personal growth, providing a unique vantage point to reflect on our place in the universe and the interconnectedness of all life.

Entrepreneurs today can launch space tourism companies that offer journeys designed not only to explore the cosmos but also to inspire and transform. This business would partner with space technology firms and lifelong learning universities to provide safe, sustainable, and awe-inspiring experiences and explorations of the universe.

Future Projections and Scenarios

From an exponential perspective, the trajectory of longevity research can be likened to the rapid advancements seen in information technology, as described by Moore's Law. The doubling of computational power every 18-24 months has been paralleled by similar exponential growth in genetic sequencing, robotics, and nanotechnology. This convergence of technologies is expected to drive exponential improvements in our ability to understand and manipulate the aging process.

Potential Timelines and Milestones

2024-2030: Foundational Breakthroughs

• 2024-2025: Continued advancements in AI-driven drug discovery lead to the identification of new senolytic compounds and other anti-aging drugs. Early clinical trials show promising results in extending healthspan and delaying the onset of age-related diseases.
• 2026-2027: Gene editing technologies, such as CRISPR, are refined and begin to be used in clinical settings to correct genetic mutations associated with aging. Initial treatments focus on rare genetic disorders but pave the way for broader applications.
• 2028-2030: Regenerative medicine techniques, including stem cell therapies and tissue engineering, achieve significant milestones. Successful regeneration of damaged tissues and organs in animal models leads to the first human trials.

2031-2040: Accelerated Adoption and Integration

• 2031-2033: AI-driven personalized medicine becomes mainstream, with widespread use of genetic and biomarker data to tailor treatments to individual patients. This leads to more effective prevention and management of age-related conditions.
• 2034-2036: The first generation of comprehensive anti-aging treatments, combining senolytics, gene editing, and regenerative medicine, receives regulatory approval. These treatments are initially expensive and limited to a small segment of the population.
• 2037-2040: Advances in manufacturing and distribution reduce the cost of anti-aging treatments, making them accessible to a broader population. Governments and healthcare systems begin to integrate these treatments into standard care protocols.

2041-2050: Societal Transformation

• 2041-2045: The average human lifespan begins to increase significantly, with many individuals living well beyond 120 years in good health. The concept of retirement evolves, with people pursuing multiple careers and lifelong learning becoming the norm.
• 2046-2050: The societal impact of extended lifespans becomes more pronounced. Healthcare systems shift focus from treating acute illnesses to managing long-term health and wellness. Social support systems, such as pensions and elder care, are restructured to accommodate longer periods of dependency.

Shaping the Longevity Future Today

While the emergence of AGI and related progress are uncertain to predict in the short-term, the long-term trend is clear and well predictable (read our Briefing on “The Myth of Linear Progress”).

We believe that the combination of a health and longevity conscious lifestyle and the technological advancements in longevity research through the convergence of multiple exponential technologies will enable any 50-year-old to live significantly longer than is today the norm.

Within 2 decades, our society will be transformed and foreword looking entrepreneurs and investors who understand this trend and pursue a long-term approach can lay the ground work for tomorrow.

Each of the business models mentioned above – and many more – can be started today as niche businesses which are laying the foundation for a future where extended lifespans are the norm. We believe that by having a utopian vision of the future, entrepreneurs and investors can be the architects of a world that celebrates continuous growth, intergenerational harmony, and the boundless exploration of both inner and outer space.

Thank you for reading!

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