27.04.2026 08:32
Russia has introduced a gene therapy drug aimed at slowing aging. A budget exceeding 2 trillion rubles has been allocated for the project, which seeks to delay cellular aging by blocking the RAGE receptor. While serial production is planned to begin between 2028 and 2030, experts emphasize the need for a lengthy testing process to confirm definitive results. Putin previously sparked debate by stating, 'Reaching the age of 150 is possible.'
Russian Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education Denis Sekirinsky introduced a gene-therapy-based drug, described as an anti-aging vaccine, to the public at the "Healthy Longevity" conference held in the Volga region.
"A DREAM BECOMES REALITY"
According to a report by The Moscow Times, the National Project "Preserving Health with New Technologies," launched in 2025, has begun to yield concrete results. The report stated that the idea of stopping aging, long debated in the scientific world, has now moved from theory to practical application.
TARGETING THE MECHANISM THAT TRIGGERS AGING
Sekirinsky noted that the developed treatment directly targets the biological mechanisms that initiate the aging process, stating, "When the drug is activated, it blocks the RAGE receptor, which triggers cell aging." This intervention aims to extend the period during which cells remain young and slow down age-related degenerative processes.
MEGA PROJECT: BUDGET EXCEEDS 2 TRILLION RUBLES
The budget for the study, conducted by the Institute of Aging Biology and Medicine, has been reported to exceed 2 trillion rubles (approximately 26.4 billion dollars). The scope and financial magnitude of the project highlight the strategic importance Russia places on this field.
SERIAL PRODUCTION SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED
Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova also shared the timeline for the serial production of the experimental treatment. Golikova stated, "The serial production of this treatment is planned to begin between 2028 and 2030."
LIFESPAN MAY EXTEND, BUT UNCERTAINTY PERSISTS
In Russia, where the average male life expectancy is 67 years, it is estimated that human lifespan could significantly increase if the project succeeds. However, experts emphasize that long-term scientific tests and comprehensive verification processes are necessary for such claims to gain certainty.
PUTIN'S NOTEWORTHY "150 YEARS" COMMENT
The anti-aging vaccine research has also brought Russian President Vladimir Putin's statements on longevity back into the spotlight. At an artificial intelligence conference he attended a few months ago, Putin said, "Reaching the age of 150 is possible. But even that, like money, will always be insufficient."