Calico Life Sciences is a research and development company focused on aging and age-related diseases. Founded in 2013 by Google’s parent company, Alphabet Inc., Calico aims to use advanced technologies to understand the biology of aging and develop interventions to improve human healthspan. In this article, we will explore the science of longevity and take a visit to the laboratories of Calico Life Sciences.
The Science of Longevity
Aging is a complex process that involves a gradual decline in the body’s ability to repair and maintain itself. As we age, we become more susceptible to various age-related diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative disorders. Scientists have been studying the biology of aging to understand the underlying mechanisms and develop interventions to delay or prevent age-related diseases.
Calico’s Laboratories
Calico has several laboratories located in the San Francisco Bay Area, including a research facility in South San Francisco. The company’s research is focused on several key areas, including genetics, epigenetics, and cellular senescence.
Genetics
Calico’s research on genetics involves the study of the genetic factors that influence aging and age-related diseases. The company has partnerships with several genetic research companies to analyze large datasets of genetic information and identify genetic markers that may be associated with longevity.
Epigenetics
Epigenetics refers to the study of changes in gene expression that do not involve changes to the DNA sequence itself. Calico is researching how epigenetic changes may contribute to aging and age-related diseases. The company is using advanced technologies, such as single-cell sequencing and genome editing, to study the epigenetic changes that occur with aging and develop interventions to reverse or prevent these changes.
Cellular Senescence
Cellular senescence is a state in which cells stop dividing and become dysfunctional, contributing to aging and age-related diseases. Calico is studying the mechanisms of cellular senescence and developing interventions to target and eliminate senescent cells. The company is also researching the use of senolytics, drugs that selectively kill senescent cells, as a potential therapy for age-related diseases.
Conclusion
Calico Life Sciences is at the forefront of research on aging and age-related diseases. The company’s research on genetics, epigenetics, and cellular senescence is aimed at understanding the underlying mechanisms of aging and developing interventions to improve human healthspan.
Through collaborations with other researchers and partnerships with genetic research companies, Calico is making strides in the science of longevity. A visit to Calico’s laboratories offers a glimpse into the future of aging research and the potential for developing interventions to delay or prevent age-related diseases.