Putin's Immortality Claim Sparks Debate: Can Organ Transplants Really Defy Aging?

Longevity Myths Debunked: Putin's Claim of Immortality Through Organ Transplants In a recent video conference between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, the two leaders discussed the possibility of achieving immortality through organ transplantation. However, experts say that this notion is far-fetched and oversimplifies the complexities of aging. According to reports, Putin stated that with advancements in biotechnology, humans can live "younger and younger" by undergoing continuous rounds of organ transplant surgery. Xi Jinping echoed this sentiment, saying that at 70 years old, one is still a child. However, experts argue that this approach is not only impractical but also ignores the intricate processes underlying aging. "Around 20 to 30 percent of our genome is dedicated to maintaining cellular function and preventing damage," said Dr. Jessica Hamzelou, a biotechnologist at MIT. "While organ transplantation can be beneficial in certain medical situations, it's not a viable solution for extending human lifespan." Hamzelou explained that aging is a multifaceted process involving the gradual decline of physical and cognitive functions over time. Researchers have yet to fully understand the underlying causes of aging, making it challenging to develop effective treatments. The idea of achieving immortality through organ transplantation has been circulating in scientific communities for years. However, experts warn against oversimplifying complex biological processes. "It's a simplistic way to think about aging," said Dr. Hamzelou. "We need to focus on understanding the root causes of aging and developing targeted interventions rather than relying on unproven methods like organ transplantation." Meanwhile, in India, authorities are exploring more practical applications of technology to improve public health. The Indian government has launched a pilot project using robots to clean sewer systems in major cities. The robots, designed by local engineers, use advanced sensors and navigation systems to detect and remove blockages from sewage pipes. This initiative aims to reduce the risk of waterborne diseases and improve sanitation infrastructure. While the idea of achieving immortality through organ transplantation may be intriguing, experts emphasize that it is not a viable solution for extending human lifespan. Instead, researchers are focusing on developing targeted interventions to address the complexities of aging. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see more innovative solutions to pressing public health issues. For now, however, it's essential to separate fact from fiction and rely on evidence-based approaches to tackle the challenges of aging. *Reporting by Technologyreview.*