In the early '90s, we discovered mutations that could double the normal life span of worms.

It was like stepping on to an escalator; I could do anything. I was just made for science.

If I were a worm, I would rather be the long-lived mutant than the normal worm, that's for sure.

You could have two completely different careers if you could stay healthy to 90. How fascinating that would be.

Imagine that: If you could change one of the genes in an experiment, an aging gene, maybe you could slow down aging and extend lifespan.

The hope is that if we can increase youthfulness, we can postpone age-related diseases.

You would think that UV just causes mutations, but it doesn't, you need a gene to be active for it.