Book
Lifespan — David Sinclair (2019)
Last updated Sat May 30 2026 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)· 1 min read
What it covers
- The information theory of aging: aging as loss of epigenetic information that can in principle be restored.
- Sinclair’s lab work on sirtuins, NAD+, and Yamanaka-factor reprogramming.
- Personal practice recommendations: caloric restriction, NMN, resveratrol, metformin.
- A more aggressive timeline than most academic peers about translation to humans.
Why it’s influential
- Brought longevity science to mainstream conversation.
- Established partial epigenetic reprogramming as a major research direction (Altos Labs, NewLimit, Retro Biosciences trace partly to Sinclair’s framing).
- Inspired investment and public interest.
What to read critically
- Some specific personal-supplement recommendations have weak human evidence (resveratrol).
- Timelines are more optimistic than most working geroscientists hold.
- The "information theory" itself is more aspirational than rigorously defined.
- Conflicts of interest (Elysium Health, Tally Health, others) are disclosed in the book but worth keeping in mind.
Companion content
- Lifespan with David Sinclair podcast.
- Lab publications on partial reprogramming and NAD+.
Related entries
David Sinclair, Information theory of aging, NAD+ precursors, Partial reprogramming.