Genetic Manipulation Mimics Calorie Restriction In Mice, Offering Promise Of Drug Treatments For Age-Related Diseases

And another reason to turn fat people into mice...

"Scientists have managed to extend the lifespan of mice by up to a fifth and reduce the number of age-related diseases the animals suffer. The research, which involved blocking a key molecular pathway, mimics the health benefits of reducing calorie intake and suggests that drug treatments for ageing and age-related diseases are feasible.

As far back as the 1930s scientists showed that reducing the calorie intake of laboratory rats whilst maintaining sufficient quantities of vitamins, minerals and other important nutrients can have health benefits. So-called 'calorie restriction' appeared to increase the life-span of the animals, and a recent study showed that this may be the case for primates, though it is not understood why. Evidence also suggests that calorie restriction can have health benefits for humans, too, though it is unclear whether it can increase longevity."

And maybe even the rest of us, too.

Guess there is a reason why they say:

the "eek" shall inherit the earth,
the "squeaky" wheel gets the grease,
"Cheese," to make you smile and

there is no apparent downside to this since, "The best laid schemes o' Mice an' Men, Gang aft agley..."

Plus, think of all the calcium from the dairy cheese.

Just watch out for cats.