'New Technologies for Health Preservation' Initiative
The Kremlin has allocated approximately $26 billion to a scientific initiative called 'New Technologies for Health Preservation,' which focuses on combating aging. This project involves developing cutting-edge technologies, including:
- 3D printing of human organs
- Xenotransplantation, which involves growing organs in mini-pigs
- Effects of ultra-low temperatures on the human body
Leading the program are Maria Vorontsova, President Vladimir Putin’s daughter and an endocrinologist, alongside physicist Mikhail Kovalchuk, head of the Kurchatov Institute.
Criticism and Skepticism
The 'New Technologies for Health Preservation' initiative claims it will save 175,000 lives by the end of the decade. Critics question this figure, noting it roughly matches independent estimates of Russian military losses in the war against Ukraine. Additionally, Deputy Science Minister Denis Sekirinsky announced the development of gene therapy to slow cellular aging, stating that 'the drug is one of the most promising directions in the fight against aging.'
In September 2023, during a meeting in Beijing, Vladimir Putin discussed the idea of achieving immortality through organ replacement with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Meanwhile, Russian scientists claim they have already successfully bio-printed human cartilage tissue and a mouse thyroid gland. The replacement of human organs is scheduled to begin by 2030.
Critics question the reality of the program’s stated achievements. Alexander Ostrovsky noted:
'It’s hard to talk about immortality, but the ability to repair a person will certainly grow.' - Alexander Ostrovsky
He also expressed that 'if there are no publications, there are no real results, and their statements should probably be seen as aspirations, if not dreams.' According to Ostrovsky, 'doing science in isolation is impossible. They are most likely telling Putin what he wants to hear to secure funding.'
This project is part of a broader effort to address aging in a society where the average life expectancy for men in Russia is about 68 years, significantly lower than in the US (76 years) and most Western European countries (over 80 years). Renowned gerontologist Vladimir Khavinson, who received one of the highest state awards from Putin, argued that humans should live to 120 years, citing the Bible. However, Khavinson died in 2024 at the age of 77.
Throughout history, the science of aging has attracted many researchers. For example, Alexander Bogdanov conducted experiments with rejuvenating blood transfusions in the 1920s but died at 55. Doctor Alexander Bogomolets also made significant contributions to the field, organizing the world’s first conference on longevity, yet died at 65.
Thus, Russia’s 'New Technologies for Health Preservation' program has sparked both hope and skepticism, given its ambitious goals and doubts about their feasibility.
The launch of the 'New Technologies for Health Preservation' program reflects the Russian government’s efforts to address critical social issues, such as an aging population. However, despite substantial investments, the reality of achievements in this field remains highly questionable, especially given the country’s scientific isolation and lack of verified results. This situation underscores the importance of a rigorous scientific approach and open exchange of information for success in medical research.