12 May,2010 10:59 AM IST | | IANS
Scientist are working on a project to develop a "magic pill" that would allow people to live beyond 100 and be fit and healthy.
Researchers have identified genes that extend life and prevent diseases including Alzheimer's, diabetes and cancer, reported dailyexpress.co.uk.
Professor Nir Barzilai, a researcher into the ageing process, told experts at London's Royal Society that the drugs could be on sale in 18 months.
One key factor seen in people who reach 100 is high levels of "good" cholesterol high density lipo-protein (HDL). ProÂfessor Barzilai, from New York's Albert Einstein College of Medicine, found centenarians who had this were protected against Alzheimer's.
"Global pharmaceutical companies Merck and Roche are developing a drug which will promote the increase in HDL," he said.
The pill would be taken in your 40s or 50s. Though talking on other perspectives he added: "There will be issues, such as pensions and social security, but from a medical perspective it's better to stay healthy".
