Study estimates theoretical human lifespan could reach 156 years without most aging hallmarks
A model by researchers at the Skolkovo Institute suggests that eliminating all aging hallmarks except somatic mutations could raise the median human lifespan to about 156 years.
Researchers at the Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology have used a computational model to estimate the maximum human lifespan if all recognized hallmarks of aging were removed except for somatic DNA mutations. The analysis indicates that post-mitotic cells such as neurons and cardiomyocytes act as critical longevity bottlenecks, limiting median lifespan to roughly 156 years, down from a theoretical non-aging baseline of 1,759 years. In contrast, proliferating tissues like the liver could maintain function for thousands of years through continual cellular replacement, effectively offsetting mutation-driven decline. The model predicts overall median lifespans ranging from 146 to 194 years, about twice current human longevity.
"Our analysis reveals fundamental asymmetry across organs: post-mitotic cells such as neurons and cardiomyocytes act as critical longevity bottlenecks, with somatic mutations reducing median lifespan from a theoretical non-aging baseline of 1,759 years to 156 years," the study states.
The researchers note that while somatic mutations appear to play a significant role in aging, they alone do not explain observed mortality patterns, suggesting that other aging mechanisms contribute comparably.