Miracles and Mayhem

Babies with DNA from 3 People: A Genetic First

In a world-first clinical trial in the U.K., eight healthy babies have been born using an innovative IVF technique that combines DNA from three people to prevent the transmission of serious genetic diseases. This method, approved in 2015, uses healthy mitochondrial DNA from a donor’s egg alongside the biological mother’s egg and father’s sperm. The goal: to stop mitochondrial diseases — which affect about 1 in 5,000 births and can cause muscle wasting, vision loss, and more — from being passed down. In the trial, the faulty mitochondrial DNA was slashed by up to 100% in most cases, giving hope to families affected by these untreatable conditions.

While researchers emphasize that the donor DNA makes up just 0.1% of the babies' genetics, the technique has stirred ethical debates. Critics warn it may lead to "designer babies" or raise moral concerns about embryo destruction. Still, experts see it as a breakthrough — a powerful, life-changing option for parents at high risk of passing on devastating diseases. The children’s health is being closely monitored, but so far, all eight are doing well.

Mushroom Compound That Could Slow Aging

In a groundbreaking study, Emory University researchers found that psilocin, a compound from psychedelic mushrooms, can slow aging and extend lifespan. In lab tests, human cells lived over 50% longer, while elderly mice treated with psilocybin lived 30% longer and showed signs of healthier aging like better fur and hair regrowth.

The compound appears to protect DNA, reduce cell stress, and preserve telomeres, key to preventing age-related diseases. While more research is needed, scientists say psilocin could one day offer not just longer life, but healthier aging, especially if approved in future therapies.

Sweetener Alert: Brain Barrier at Risk

A new study raises concerns about erythritol, a popular sweetener found in thousands of “sugar-free” and keto-friendly products. Researchers discovered that at levels typically consumed from drinks or snacks, erythritol may damage the blood-brain barrier (the brain’s crucial defense system) and impair blood vessel function. It triggered oxidative stress, disrupted blood flow regulation by lowering nitric oxide and increasing vessel-constricting chemicals, and even blocked the body’s natural ability to dissolve blood clots. These changes are linked to a higher risk of stroke and heart disease.

The findings align with previous human studies that showed those with high blood levels of erythritol had twice the risk of major heart events. Although regulatory agencies have deemed erythritol safe, the study highlights growing concerns that even “natural” sweeteners may have hidden health risks, especially with regular use. Scientists emphasize the need for further testing and suggest consumers rethink their reliance on these sugar substitutes.