This documentary dives into the rapidly expanding world of anti-ageing science and longevity research, following a determined journey to separate bold promises from real breakthroughs. Guided by a curious and questioning approach, it explores cutting-edge laboratories, emerging therapies and the scientists who are challenging one of humanity’s oldest limitations. From biological age reversal to experimental treatments, the film reveals both the excitement and the uncertainty surrounding a field that could redefine how we understand life itself. As the investigation unfolds, it raises compelling questions about what it truly means to live longer—and at what cost. By confronting the hype, ethical dilemmas and scientific realities, the story offers a balanced and thought-provoking look at a future where ageing might no longer be inevitable. It’s an eye-opening exploration that invites viewers to reconsider the boundaries of human lifespan and the possibilities that lie ahead.
The use of embryonic stem cells has ignited fierce debate across the spiritual and political spectrum. But what if we could create manmade stem cells - or find super cells in adults that could forever replace embryonic cells and remove the controversy? Today, we are on the brink of a new era - an age where we may be able to cure our bodies of any illness. Stephen Hawking has spent his life exploring the mysteries of the cosmos, now there is another universe that fascinates him - the one hidden inside our bodies - our own personal galaxies of cells." Hawking takes us on a fascinating journey exploring what these wondrous and baffling mechanisms are capable of. He is joined by the scientists who are on the front lines of discovery in this field including Dr. Doris Taylor who is customizing a donor's heart with the recipient's stem cells - her goal is to revolutionize heart transplants, Dr. Paul Lu and Dr. Mark Tuszynski may have created a breakthrough that could cure paralysis, and Dr. Vincent Giampapa who believes that stem cells can be used to stem the tide of aging and create a fountain of youth.
Our lifespan is increasing by 2.5 years every decade - and a third of all babies born today can expect to live to 100. But living longer can come at a cost. Old age itself brings with it a range of debilitating illnesses, many of which are the result of accumulating damage during our lifetime. Three diseases in particular have become the main killers in the developed world - cancer, heart disease and dementia. But a revolution in bio-medicine is now offering new hope for the treatment of these ailments, and the potential to extend our lives still further. Methods such as gene editing and stem cell therapies are transforming the way medicine can conquer disease today. "How to Live Longer" counts with the guide of the Nobel laureate Sir Paul Nurse, for whom the big question isn't just what science can do to fix our bodies and extend our lives, but whether it's right to use all the tools and techniques available.
As the investigation unfolds, it raises compelling questions about what it truly means to live longer—and at what cost. By confronting the hype, ethical dilemmas and scientific realities, the story offers a balanced and thought-provoking look at a future where ageing might no longer be inevitable. It’s an eye-opening exploration that invites viewers to reconsider the boundaries of human lifespan and the possibilities that lie ahead.