Tackling the mechanisms underlying ageing is desirable to help to extend the duration and improve the quality of life. Life extension has been achieved in animal models by suppressing the growth hormone–insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) axis and also via dietary restriction. Metformin has become the focus of increased interest as a possible anti-ageing drug. There is some overlap in the postulated mechanisms of how these three approaches could produce anti-ageing effects, with convergence on common downstream pathways.

Tackling the mechanisms underlying ageing is desirable to help to extend the duration and improve the quality of life. Life extension has been achieved in animal models by suppressing the growth hormone–insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) axis and also via dietary restriction. Metformin has become the focus of increased interest as a possible anti-ageing drug. There is some overlap in the postulated mechanisms of how these three approaches could produce anti-ageing effects, with convergence on common downstream pathways.

Tackling the mechanisms underlying ageing is desirable to help to extend the duration and improve the quality of life. Life extension has been achieved in animal models by suppressing the growth hormone–insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) axis and also via dietary restriction. Metformin has become the focus of increased interest as a possible anti-ageing drug. There is some overlap in the postulated mechanisms of how these three approaches could produce anti-ageing effects, with convergence on common downstream pathways.