Scientists in Europe tested two cancer drugs, rapamycin and trametinib, on mice and discovered that when combined, they extended the animals’ lifespans by roughly 26 to 35 percent. Individually, rapamycin increased lifespan by about 17 to 18 percent, while trametinib boosted it by 7 to 16 percent.

Beyond living longer, the mice treated with both drugs stayed healthier, showing delayed tumor growth in organs like the liver and spleen, less chronic inflammation in the brain, kidneys, and muscles, and slower heart decline. They also remained more active in older age compared to untreated mice.

The drugs work on the same cellular pathway but target different points, producing unique gene expression changes when combined. Importantly, the combo didn’t cause additional side effects beyond what is known for each drug alone.

While this doesn’t mean humans can expect huge lifespan jumps, the researchers hope these drugs might help people stay healthier and disease-free longer in old age. Both drugs are already approved for human use in cancer treatment, and early studies suggest possible anti-aging benefits, like extending fertility in women. Human trials could begin soon to explore these possibilities further.