Jellyfish Age Backwards: Nature’s Secrets to Longevity by molecular biologist Nicklas Brendborg
I laughed while I learned a great deal, smiled a lot, and was left wanting more!
Jellyfish Age Backwards is a fascinating exploration of the science of aging and the secrets to longevity hidden within the natural world. Brendborg takes the reader on a journey from the most cutting-edge research to the farthest reaches of the globe, examining the mystery of why we age and what might be possible for human lifespans.
[Image of the Turritopsis dohrnii jellyfish] The book’s title is inspired by the tiny Turritopsis dohrnii jellyfish, an organism that can, when stressed, revert from its adult stage back to its juvenile polyp stage, effectively beginning its life cycle anew and demonstrating a form of biological immortality.
Beyond the backwards-aging jellyfish, Brendborg presents mind-bending discoveries from a variety of organisms, including the centuries-old Greenland shark, trees and lobsters that don’t age in the traditional sense, and naked mole-rats with remarkable disease resistance. The book blends these amazing examples from nature with stories of human efforts toward extending life, such as individuals who have successfully edited their own DNA or practiced extreme fasting. Ultimately, Jellyfish Age Backwards aims to reshape our understanding of what’s possible, revealing that we are likely far from the limit of biological longevity and offering insights—rooted in rigorous science—into how we might unlock our own potential for a longer, healthier life.
The Publishing Post (UK):
“Brendborg explores what could be a complicated and heavy subject so intriguingly, funnily and in such an accessible manner… [It] will teach you so much and have you picking up facts and details that you’ll be running to tell your friends.”
The New York Times Book Review (Audio Review):
“This dive into the science of aging is narrated by Joe Leat in a tone that channels the author’s enthusiasm. It’s a quick, easy tour of hard science, addictive and enriching.”
Very informative, interesting, and quite a bit of humor thrown in!