In this episode of Peak Human Labs, Dr. Sanjeev Goel sits down with Dr. Ryan Rossner, a former NFL player turned PhD researcher, now working at MiniCircle—a pioneering company developing the world’s first reversible human genetic enhancement platform. Using highly expressive DNA plasmids, MiniCircle’s innovative approach allows genes to be added to the body without altering the existing genome.

Dr. Rossner delves into groundbreaking health optimization strategies, particularly gene therapy involving the follistatin gene, which enhances muscle growth, reduces inflammation, and supports rejuvenation. The conversation expands to other gene therapies, the role of sleep and exercise in longevity, and the importance of a holistic approach to health.

They also explore cutting-edge longevity science, including hibernation’s impact on metabolism, metabolic flexibility, and seasonal metabolic shifts. Dr. Rossner introduces the concept of metabolic elasticity—how an adaptable metabolism can extend lifespan. He breaks down key longevity mechanisms such as fasting, insulin regulation, and AMPK activation while highlighting promising research areas like ICAR and plasmapheresis. Throughout the discussion, he shares insights from his work at MiniCircle, offering a glimpse into the future of health and longevity interventions.

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Key Takeaways

In This Episode:

[00:00:00] Introduction to the podcast

[00:01:17] Guest introduction – Dr. Ryan Rossner

[00:03:00] Mini Circle overview

[00:03:37] Follistatin gene benefits

[00:04:05] Gene therapy mechanism

[00:04:57] Transfection process

[00:05:22] DNA integration clarification

[00:05:58] Follistatin level variation

[00:06:44] Therapy duration

[00:07:06] Accessibility of treatment

[00:07:42] Future gene therapies

[00:08:09] Clotho gene benefits

[00:08:47] Patient treatment outcomes

[00:09:30] Biological age measurement

[00:09:43] Age reduction results

[00:10:19] Personal experience in longevity

[00:11:46] Pyramid of longevity

[00:12:02] Individual variation in treatment response

[00:12:18] Importance of sleep

[00:13:10] Sleep and detoxification

[00:13:44] Orexin receptor antagonists

[00:14:20] Impact of aging on sleep

[00:16:28] Weekly exercise routine

[00:17:07] Recovery practices

[00:20:59] Brain health insights

[00:21:33] Supplements for brain health

[00:21:52] Sauna and brain health

[00:22:31] Hypoxia chamber experience

[00:23:31] Research on hypoxia and longevity

[00:24:47] Comparing oxygen levels

[00:25:13] Creatine for brain benefits

[00:26:01] Vitamin D and health

[00:26:57] Rapamycin in longevity

[00:27:48] Episodic use of rapamycin

[00:30:17] Metabolic depression and triggers

[00:31:64] Metabolic elasticity

[00:34:03] Seasonal metabolism

[00:35:06] Underappreciated longevity mechanisms

[00:35:21] Genetic pathways and longevity

[00:37:03] Interest in plasmapheresis

[00:38:04] Future work at Mini Circle

[00:38:38] Resources for learning

Our Guest

Ryan Rossner is a Ph.D. student in Molecular Medicine at the University of Washington, researching flavin-containing monooxygenase proteins in aging. Dr. Matt Kaeberlein, studies mechanisms of longevity and is a trainee in the Biological Mechanisms of Healthy Aging Program. As Director of Longevity Research at MiniCircle, he develops gene therapy platforms for health optimization. An active biohacker, he experiments with tools like altitude generators and ice baths. Rossner shares insights on aging and longevity through social media, contributing to the broader conversation on extending human potential.

Peak Human Labs

Dr. Sanjeev Goel

Dr. Ryan Rossner