DAOs and Crypto Trading Power New Frontier in Anti-Aging Research
A new wave of crypto projects is channeling funds from token trading into scientific research on aging and longevity. Platforms like Pump.science and VitaDAO are using trading fees and token sales to finance experiments that may extend human lifespan.
Pump.science recently began taking orders for its first anti-aging supplement, Urolithin A. Research for this compound was funded by crypto traders purchasing related tokens. The platform claims the molecule increased worm lifespans by 6.35% and fly lifespans by 20.13% in experiments that token holders could watch via livestream.
The platform operates by releasing tokens on a bonding curve. Those generating enough interest graduate to the Meteora DEX, where trading fees fund further research. According to data from the source, around 45,000 token holders have generated approximately $2.37 billion in volume and 220 SOL in fees.
Co-founder Benji Leibowitz describes Pump.science as a "gamified version of the biotech industry's high throughput screening methods." The platform tested its concept by launching Rifampicin and Urolithin A tokens on Pump.fun last year before moving to its own platform.
A legal contract gives token holders a share of the intellectual property. While Urolithin A itself cannot be patented as a naturally occurring substance, the experimental data and methods of use can be. The compound has Generally Recognized as Safe status, allowing platform users to purchase and test it without FDA approval.
Max Unfried, research fellow at the National University of Singapore's Center for Healthy Longevity, says crypto funding can make a difference in the anti-aging sector, which often lacks resources. However, he warns that easily tradable IP could lead to hostile takeovers, where pharmaceutical companies might acquire and suppress promising research.
VitaDAO has seen success with projects like VitaRNA, which raised $300,000 for gene therapy research and filed patents for treatments targeting mutation-driven diseases. The organization is also incorporating AI into its research process, including an agent trained on works by longevity scientist Aubrey de Grey.
This push toward DeSci aligns with recent discussions at BNB Chain events in Hong Kong, where blockchain leaders including Binance founder CZ advised focusing on real utility rather than token speculation. The growing interest in decentralized science represents part of Web3's evolution toward practical applications beyond financial trading.
