Researchers have identified a common issue in mouse studies of aging – the inconsistency in outcomes of interventions aimed at slowing aging. The high cost and small study sizes hinder replication efforts. Variances in control group setups are a major contributor to this problem. A reanalysis of lifespan studies reveals that shorter lifespans in control groups can skew results. The National Institute of Aging Interventions Testing Program (ITP) stands out as a gold standard for mouse longevity studies, incorporating optimal husbandry practices and large sample sizes. The ITP has failed to replicate lifespan extensions observed in previous studies for compounds like metformin and resveratrol, highlighting concerns about data robustness. Through reanalyzing data from various studies, researchers emphasize the importance of long-lived control groups in mouse studies, proposing the “900-day rule” to ensure accurate comparisons.
Link: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.arr.2024.102512
