Retro Biosciences Raises $1 Billion to Extend Human Lifespan

Retro Biosciences, a San Francisco-based biotech startup, is making waves in the longevity sector with its ambitious goal of extending human lifespan by 10 years. Riding the crest of this bold venture, the company has announced a $1 billion Series A funding round, with significant backing from OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. Altman, who previously invested $180 million in seed funding, is doubling down on the company’s mission to revolutionize human health and longevity.

The startup plans to use the influx of capital to accelerate its research and development efforts. Retro Biosciences is targeting diseases like Alzheimer's and aims to launch clinical trials for its innovative drugs in the near future. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, the company has trained a model with OpenAI to turn regular cells into stem cells, marking a significant advancement in regenerative medicine.

CEO Joe Betts-LaCroix is keen on maintaining momentum and achieving breakthroughs within the decade, stating his desire to discover and develop a life-extending drug "in the 2020s." Retro Biosciences stands out as part of a growing trend of billionaire-backed longevity efforts in the biotech industry, drawing comparisons with other high-profile endeavors like Altos Labs and Unity Biotechnology.

Altos Labs, launched with $3 billion in 2022 under the support of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, and Unity Biotechnology, backed by both Bezos and entrepreneur Peter Thiel, exemplify the burgeoning interest in extending human life. These initiatives reflect an increasing investment in understanding and potentially reversing the aging process.

Retro Biosciences’ efforts are poised at the intersection of advanced biotechnology and visionary funding. The company's innovative approach and substantial financial backing could potentially lead to groundbreaking discoveries in extending human lifespan. As the biotech industry continues to attract interest from high-profile investors, Retro Biosciences remains at the forefront of this transformative movement.