Are you experiencing the effects of aging and longing to feel youthful again? A new startup, Ambrosia, claims that the secret may lie in the blood of a younger person. For a price of $8,000, they offer to infuse your veins with the blood of a younger individual, promising rejuvenation without the need for magic [1].
Founded by Stanford Medical School graduate Jesse Karmazin, Ambrosia believes that blood could be the next approved drug by the government [1]. While the concept of blood transfusions is not new in healthcare, the idea of using young blood to combat age-related conditions has generated interest and controversy.
Blood Transfusions in Health Care
Every year, millions of blood transfusions are conducted in the U.S. to aid in healing and recovery. The process involves transferring donated blood components, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, plasma, and platelets, to the recipient’s body [2]. While typically used to replenish lost blood post-surgery or injury, the potential benefits of young blood on age-related illnesses are still being researched.
Can Blood Make You Younger?
Studies have shown some promise in the rejuvenating effects of young blood, particularly in muscle rejuvenation in older mice. However, researchers caution that further evidence is needed to confirm these findings [3]. Despite this, Ambrosia conducted clinical trials where participants received plasma from young donors, claiming positive results. However, critics, such as Tony Wyss-Coray from Stanford University, argue against the lack of concrete clinical evidence in support of such treatments [5].
Ambrosia’s Clinical Trials
While Ambrosia remains optimistic about the outcomes of their trials, skeptics warn of potential risks associated with such procedures. The FDA allows off-label use of blood transfusions, but concerns about the long-term effects and safety of infusing older individuals with young blood persist [3].
What is “Off-Label” Treatment?
Off-label treatments involve using approved medical procedures or drugs for unapproved purposes. In Ambrosia’s case, the use of blood transfusions is considered safe by the FDA, allowing for such unconventional approaches [8]. While blood transfusions generally have low risks, potential complications like bloodborne infections or immune reactions exist and should be considered before undergoing such treatments [2].
What are the Dangers of Ambrosia’s Procedure?
Despite the perceived benefits, concerns about immune responses and potential risks associated with infusing older individuals with young blood persist. Critics warn of the dangers of heightened immune reactions and the lack of substantial clinical evidence to support Ambrosia’s claims [8]. Only time will reveal the true implications of such controversial practices.
