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The Man Who Cured Aging

In 1899, Elie Metchnikoff woke up in Paris to learn that he had defeated old age. At least, that's what the newspaper headlines said. Before long he was inundated with mail from people begging him to help them live forever. The only problem? He didn't know how to do it.

At the time, Metchnikoff was one of the world's most famous scientists. And he believed aging was a disease he could cure. He dedicated his life to that quest, spending his days interviewing centenarians, pulling gray hair out of colleagues and old dogs, and boiling strawberries — all in the pursuit of eternal youth. If you've ever had yogurt for breakfast, you likely have Metchnikoff to thank.

Today on the show: Elie Metchnikoff's quest, his life — and his death

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The Man Who Cured Aging

January 25, 20243:00 AM ET

[Ramtin Arablouei, co-host and co-producer of Throughline.]

Ramtin Arablouei

[Rund Abdelfatah headshot]

Rund Abdelfatah

Lawrence Wu

[Headshot of Julie Caine]

The Man Who Cured Aging

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Transcript](https://www.npr.org/transcripts/1198908457)

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