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Aging is malleable, at least in animal models. But to prove the efficacy of interventions aimed at extending healthspan and to test life-extending approaches in humans, longevity researchers first need to agree on the best measuring tools. With the power of ’omics, AI and large biobanks, improved biomarkers may be forthcoming. Companies and academic researchers are rallying forces, but how far have they gotten?
GEARS, a machine learning model informed by biological knowledge of gene–gene relationships, effectively predicts transcriptional responses to multi-gene perturbations. GEARS can predict the effects of perturbing previously unperturbed genes and detects non-additive interactions, such as synergy, when predicting combinatorial perturbation outcomes. Thus, GEARS expands insights gained from perturbational screens.
A new generation of companies is pursuing insect larvae as a protein source for animal feed, fertilizer, biofuels and even as ingredients for burgers and shakes. The insects promise to deliver cheaper and more sustainable alternatives to soy and fishmeal, with the added benefit that larvae can be raised on organic waste.
