Robert Nelsen, an emblematic figure in biotechnology, is not content to invest in research on longevity. He experiments himself with avant-garde methods to combat aging. Medicines, check-ups and sport, discover the intensive routine of a man who wants to stay young and healthy at all costs.
Robert Nelsen, co-founder and managing partner of Arch Venture Partners, is a emblematic figure of the world of biotechnology. At 60, he has already invested in some of the most innovative companies in cancer diagnostics, gene editing and longevity. Its recent investment in Altos Labsa biotech startup focused on restoring cellular health to extend human life, testifies to his obsession: to prolong youth and health at all costs.
But Nelsen doesn’t just invest in longevity research, he’s a stakeholder in the fight, and an avid follower of various methods to combat his own aging. His daily routine is a complex mix of medications, medical visits and specific training. He detailed in an interview with wall street journal some of the strategies he imposes on himself in his everyday life:
Medicines and food supplements:
Robert Nelsen takes at least a dozen different medications and supplements daily. Among them, we can cite:
- rapamycin or sirolimus: iOriginally used to treat cancer patients and organ recipients, this drug tells cells in the body to stop growing. Although it has shown anti-aging properties in animals, its effectiveness in humans remains to be determined.
- metformin: Used for decades to treat diabetes and promote weight loss, some researchers believe the substance may also prevent dementia and certain cancers. However, these uses are not yet recommended.
- taurine: this substance, produced naturally in animals and humans, decreases with age. Studies have shown that mice supplemented with taurine lived longer.
Extensive regular examinations
In particular, Nelsen submits to a Body MRI every six months, a practice that, although it can help detect health problems, presents risks of misdiagnosis. Nevertheless, Nelsen claims that such an MRI has already detected thyroid cancer at an early stage.
Moreover, since cancer prevention is a priority for Nelsen, he therefore consults a dermatologist every three months, much more frequently than the classic recommendations, which would be at most for an annual check-up. These regular visits allow him to be reassured about early detection of signs of skin cancer.
Sport in electric suit
Nelsen engages in sparring sessions in a special suit that emits weak electrical pulses all over his body. He strongly believes that these currents can strengthen his muscles and improve his overall health.
Robert Nelsen’s wife, Ellyn Hennecke, told the Wall Street Journal: “Bob is very afraid of death“. We would have suspected it.