What to major in (for college) to learn about Life Extension, Regenerative Medicine, Anti-Aging etc!?!?

Question

In recent times there have been major advancements in what is known about the causes of aging and how to help stop and prevent aging. I want to learn all I can about this subject and eventually obtain a position where I can truly help advance this field of research. I am unsure of whether genetics, biology, medicine etc etc would be best to major in for college. It seems like there is so much to it that it's hard to determine what the best path to take really is! Hopefully I can obtain a response from someone more educated than I on this.

Answer 1

You might want to major in cell and molecular biology (or biology with a cell and molecular emphasis). Much of the research in these fields is currently conducted at a cell and molecular level.

At my university, there is a lab that studies telomeres, which have been associated with aging, another lab that studies anti-aging effects of caloric restriction, and several labs that have some connection with regeneration (wound healing, liver, etc.)--likely any university will have at least one lab with research related to aging and/or regeneration. Thus, regardless of the university you attend, you can always check out the research in the labs on campus and volunteer to do some research. That way, you can see whether you really want to do research in this area, and it might give you an idea of how to focus your interests in the future (grad school, etc.).

If you do not attend a large research university, you might look at nearby universities--some professors may allow you to volunteer in the summer or during the year, even if you are not a student on that campus. You just need to show that you are interested in the research and hard-working. :)

Answer 2

Some of the most promising recent results have come from genetics. But to do anything in this field, you need a broad background in biology from a school which teaches you how to think and how biological systems work. Descriptive biology won't help much. As you build your foundation, you will get a better idea of what parts interest you and what you're good at. If you pursue it from the perspective of medicine, you'll get more about how to apply what we already know. You're also likely to be blinded or stonewalled against approaches which don't make money for drug companies or enrich the coffers of physician's unions. Even early in your education, keep reading about aging and recent developments.