Scientists at the University of Connecticut's Health Center have announced a discovery that might realize a most ancient and powerful wish--to extend human life.

The researchers have identified a gene in fruit flies that, when modified, actually doubles the insect's life span. The discovery of the gene, which is also found in humans, could open the way for new life-extending therapies.

The gene--whimsically named INDY for "I'm Not Dead Yet" (which should bring a smile of recognition to Monty Python fans everywhere)--has been subjected to multiple, independent mutations, each resulting in extended life spans equivalent to 150 human years. What's more, quality of life has been maintained in the longer-living fruit flies. The alteration appears to prolong adulthood and delay the onset of aging, rather than extend infancy. The flies also remain physically and sexually active.

The research, initially reported in Science in December 2000, has been widely publicized around the world. Dr. Stephen Helfand, the principal investigator and an associate professor of genetics and developmental biology, says the INDY mutations seem to extend life by causing a form of caloric restriction that, in essence, puts body cells on a diet. Currently, caloric restriction is the only known way to extend the life span of mammals. If the mutations are creating a genetic caloric restriction, Helfand speculates, "it would be as if an INDY animal could eat as much as it wants without becoming obese, live twice as long as average, and still retain normal function and activity."

According to co-investigator, Dr. Blanka Rogina, assistant professor of genetics and developmental biology, "our next objective is to demonstrate more clearly that the effect on extending life span is indeed due to caloric restriction in the gene-altered fruit flies."

UConn researchers deny they have found the Fountain of Youth. Still, they concede that if the INDY gene's primary role in humans is absorbing nutrients, their finding could result in the development of engineered weight-control drugs that target the specific areas of the body responsible for energy absorption.

One thing is certain: The remarkable discovery at the UConn Health Center has scientists from around the world wondering if a tiny fruit fly could hold answers to some of science's biggest questions.