Thursday is the day to write about making things. I've selected this FT article for today's MAKE topic: The start-ups seeking a cure for old age. It caught my eye partly because of how interesting it is, but also noted Clint Bybee's ARCH Venture co-founder quoted in the story:
"Robert Nelsen, co-founder at Arch Venture Partners, says the company only wanted very long-term investors. His group can hold shares in Altos for 10 to 15 years if necessary, though he believes other investors will see the value long before it lands on a “Holy Grail”."
Mr. Bybee tells me this is indeed one of their 'BIG IDEA' companies! (Speaking of BIG, Clint catches quite a few large-size fish these days while continuing to serve our Austin community on essential non-profit boards, such as Mobile Loaves and Fishes.)
If the link does not work, the gist of the story goes like this:
- How do we MAKE for a longer, healthier life?
- Have we reached a point where drug companies can begin making drugs that extend lifespan for years?
- Metformin is one promising drug (currently used to help diabetics) that promises to extend a healthy lifespan. See: Will Metformin Become the First Anti-Aging Drug?
- If this pans out, can society ensure the distribution is democratized so all people have access?
Please take a look and give my last summary bullet a think. Like almost all media today, the writer shares concerns about equality, fairness, wealth distribution, and even the possibility that a longevity drug might extend the life of a dictator. That is true, but couldn't it also extend the life of a great humanitarian or inventor?
I choose optimism,
Dad
