Protective Hormone may Raise Issues of Treatment vs. Enhancement

In summary, the recently described hormone Klotho has shown potential in providing relief from aging and brain problems, such as Alzheimer's, and may even enhance brain function. This NY Times article discusses the research background and potential concerns surrounding its use for enhancement purposes. The article also touches on the common response of viewing prevention and cure as good, while enhancement is often seen as problematic. However, there does not seem to be any negative consequences for individuals or society in using this drug. The conversation also briefly mentions the desire for free samples and the skepticism towards other supposed wonder-drugs advertised online.
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BillTre
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The recently described hormone Klotho (which I never heard of before) seems to provide relief from some aging and brain problems (like Alzheimer's) and may even enhance brain function (as in a "smart" pill).
This NY Times article describes research background and some of the potential issues it could raise if it pans out.
The article discusses the usual responses of prevention/cure good; enhancement usually bad and how it might be difficult to disentangle the two.

<mentor fix spelling>
 
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There does not seem to be a down side for the individual or for society for this drug.
 
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BillTre said:
and may even enhance brain function (as in a "smart" pill)
Do you have a link for the free samples? :oldbiggrin:
 
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BillTre said:
...enhancement usually bad...
Unless it is a little blue pill, or tastes like coffee or promised by some ever-new, always 'suppressed by official science' barely legal wonder-drug you can order through hard-to-kill advertisements on the internet :rolleyes:
 
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1. What is a protective hormone?

A protective hormone is a type of hormone that is naturally produced by the body to help protect against certain diseases or conditions. These hormones can also help regulate bodily functions and maintain overall health.

2. How does a protective hormone differ from other types of hormones?

Unlike other hormones that primarily regulate bodily functions, protective hormones specifically target and protect against certain diseases or conditions. They are also produced in smaller amounts and are more specific in their actions.

3. Can a protective hormone be used for both treatment and enhancement purposes?

Yes, a protective hormone can be used for both treatment and enhancement purposes. For example, a hormone that protects against heart disease can be used to treat someone who already has heart disease, but it can also be used to enhance heart health in someone who does not have the disease.

4. What are some ethical concerns surrounding the use of protective hormones?

One of the main ethical concerns surrounding the use of protective hormones is the potential for them to be used for enhancement purposes rather than just treatment. This raises questions about fairness, access, and the potential for creating unequal advantages in society.

5. How can we ensure responsible use of protective hormones?

To ensure responsible use of protective hormones, it is important to have strict regulations and guidelines in place for their use. This includes proper testing and monitoring, as well as clear distinctions between treatment and enhancement purposes. It is also important to consider the potential ethical implications and involve a diverse range of stakeholders in the decision-making process.

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