DUNCAN ROSS: PIONEERING REGENERATIVE MEDICINE
Advancements in Cellular Rejuvenation and Anti-Aging Therapies
HANNAH HALILI
2024
Dr. Duncan Ross is a distinguished figure in biochemistry and immunology. Motivated by his father's battle with leukemia, Ross delved into the intricacies of bone marrow transplantation, unraveling the mysteries of cancer development and immune response dynamics.
"My father had leukemia," Ross said. "He contracted leukemia, and so I sort of followed that, and got myself into graduate school to try to help him with that. He passed away two years after I started, but I have a Ph.D. now in bone marrow transplantation, which is what he would have needed for his disease."
Groundbreaking Research in Regenerative Medicine
Ross's groundbreaking research focuses on regenerative medicine, leveraging placental mesenchymal stem cells and exosomes to pioneer safer and more effective treatments.
"I have a 27,000-square-foot laboratory in Miami that grows placental mesenchymal stem cells and isolates the growth factors, the particles from them called exosomes," Ross said. "We use these very safe exosomes that are easy to keep sterile versus cells, which are not easy to keep sterile."
Advancements in Cellular Rejuvenation
Ross has a profound understanding of cellular rejuvenation and its potential to extend human lifespan indefinitely.
"Your cells have been around for millions of years," Ross said. "But if you can just control those cells, then there is no limit to the lifespan."
His recent breakthrough publication in Nature Scientific Reports unveils a novel approach utilizing focused ultrasound and exosomes to rejuvenate the aging brain's hippocampus, signaling a paradigm shift in anti-aging therapeutics.
"We just published a paper in Nature Scientific Reports, which is the largest journal in the world, for the use of focused ultrasound," Ross said. "By using my exosomes, which deliver young growth factors, and targeting focused ultrasound to the hippocampus, you can preferentially make them extravasate to that area and make the hippocampus think that it's younger."
Brent Nally
Discussing exosomes at RAADfest
Exosomes and Regenerative Medicine
Ross's work with exosomes is particularly noteworthy.
"We use these very safe exosomes that are easy to keep sterile versus cells, which are not easy to keep sterile," Ross said. "We use them for the same purposes as stem cells were used say 10 years ago, but now it's an evolution of the technology such that it's sterile, it's cleaner, it's easier to use, it's off the shelf."
Focus on Anti-Aging and Cognitive Enhancement
Ross's research also explores the potential of rapamycin, known for its immunosuppressive properties in organ transplantation, for its anti-aging benefits.
"By inhibiting the mTOR pathway, rapamycin can reduce inflammation and promote longevity by preventing cellular damage and enhancing repair mechanisms," Ross said.
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Cancer and Leukemia Research
In addition to his focus on anti-aging, Ross is involved in cancer and leukemia research. He provides insights into leukemia, bone marrow transplants, and the challenges of graft-versus-host disease.
"Innovations in controlling graft-versus-host disease through products that manage immune response are highlighted in my work," Ross said.
The smile mentor
An interview with Dr. Duncan Ross
Integration of Nutraceuticals
Ross's contributions extend beyond traditional medicine into the realm of nutraceuticals, emphasizing food-derived products that provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition.
"These could be integrated into therapies aimed at improving overall health and combating diseases," Ross said.
Cutting-Edge Health Technologies
Ross's research encompasses a wide array of cutting-edge health technologies, from hyperbaric oxygen therapy to nootropics for cognitive enhancement.
"My pioneering efforts in regenerative medicine and anti-aging therapeutics continue to push the boundaries of medical science, offering new hope for extending human lifespan and improving quality of life," Ross said.