Novartis’ dare Unit Targets Aging at the Molecular Level to Combat Rising Disease Burden
By Dr. Michaela Lee, World-Today-News.com – November 2, 2023
The global health landscape is shifting. Age-related diseases – encompassing neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s, and widespread cardiovascular and metabolic illnesses – are no longer simply a consequence of longer lifespans, but a rapidly increasing burden on healthcare systems worldwide. Now, a dedicated research unit within Novartis, known as DARe (Discovery of Age-Related Diseases), is taking a bold new approach: targeting the fundamental mechanisms of aging itself to develop regenerative therapies.
DARe’s strategy isn’t based on theoretical models, but firmly anchored in human data.Researchers are meticulously dissecting the molecular processes that drive age-related decline, with the ultimate goal of restoring cellular and tissue function. “We have an exciting chance to reimagine the discovery of medicines for human diseases using the lens of aging and regenerative biology across organ systems,” explains Michaela Kneissel, Global Head of dare for Biomedical Research at Novartis.
(Image: The mitochondrial network in cultured human skeletal muscle cells, courtesy of Ryan Hahn)
Currently, DARe is focusing on three core processes central to aging and the progress of related diseases:
* Mitochondrial Dysfunction: Frequently enough described as the “powerhouses” of cells, mitochondria become less efficient with age, leading to reduced energy production (ATP) and a dangerous increase in damaging free radicals.
* Declining DNA Repair: Our ability to repair genetic damage diminishes over time, resulting in genomic instability and contributing to cellular dysfunction and disease.
* extracellular Matrix (ECM) Alterations: The ECM, the structural scaffolding surrounding cells, undergoes changes with age, impacting cellular activity, tissue integrity, and ultimately, organ function.
But DARe’s research extends beyond these foundational areas. Scientists are also investigating the potential of modulating cell fate and state – essentially, guiding cells to regenerate and restore tissue function. This work is powered by a complex “Regeneration Engine,” a data science platform that analyzes high-resolution datasets to identify promising therapeutic targets. Initial research has focused on osteoarthritis and tendinopathy, but has now expanded to include Alzheimer’s Disease and Sjögren’s Disease.
Interestingly,DARe is also looking at lifestyle interventions. The benefits of exercise in combating age-related decline are well-documented, and researchers are working to understand the underlying molecular mechanisms – particularly how physical activity can reverse age-related mitochondrial dysfunction. Similarly,the team is exploring ways to increase energy expenditure in skeletal muscle,perhaps offering a therapeutic avenue for age-related obesity.
dare’s commitment to a data-driven, human-centric approach represents a significant shift in pharmaceutical research. By focusing on the root causes of aging, rather than simply treating its symptoms, Novartis’ DARe unit aims to unlock a new era of regenerative medicine and address the growing global health challenge of age-related diseases.
Keywords: Aging, Age-Related Diseases, Regenerative Medicine, Novartis, DARe, Mitochondrial Dysfunction, DNA Repair, Extracellular Matrix, Alzheimer’s Disease, Osteoarthritis, Exercise, Obesity, Biomedical Research, Pharmaceuticals, Health News.