The Youth Pill: Scientists at the Brink of an Anti-Aging Revolution

The possibility of even a decade more of healthy longevity still makes for an engaging study of recent breakthroughs in gerontology. Former Wall Street Journal science reporter Stipp surveys contending theories of aging—such as antioxidants—and their pitfalls before focusing on promising research into the so-called CR mimetics, drugs that mimic the possibly life-extending benefits of calorie restriction without the unpleasant semistarvation. (Lab mice, rejoice: the CR mimetic resveratrol may even prevent cancer and keep your coat glossy.) The book morphs into a business potboiler, with researchers forming biotech startups and selling IPOs—adding hype but little light to the story. But if this is a more conventional and prosaic account than Jonathan Weiner’s in Long for This World, Stipp’s lucid and spry exposition of the science is tantalizing enough on its own. (July 8)