The idea of extending the human lifespan has long fascinated the public and challenged scientists. Funding for research into ageing processes, and the R&D of therapeutics to slow them, is increasing. Recent findings suggest that progress has been made, motivated in part by the rapid growth of elderly populations that might benefit from such advances. Furthermore, economists predict that many countries may face bankruptcy by 2050 (or earlier) because of rising healthcare expenditures associated with care of the elderly.