Jellyfish Age Backwards by Nicklas Brendborg—Overview

An artistic image of a jellyfish swimming in the ocean

Why do people get sick and die from old age, while some other organisms don’t? Is there a way to prevent aging in humans—or even to reverse it? In Jellyfish Age Backwards, biotech researcher Nicklas Brendborg uses Turritopsis dohrnii—the immortal jellyfish—as an entry point to explore the latest research on longevity. Brendborg weaves together cutting-edge science, evolutionary biology, and practical insights about the topic. Continue reading for an overview of Jellyfish Age Backwards.

How and Why We Age: The 2 Top Scientific Theories

An elderly man sitting in a rocking chair, pondering the question of why we age

Why does human health decline as we age? Do all creatures age in the same way? Biotech researcher and author of Jellyfish Age Backwards, Nicklas Brendborg, explains the top two theories on human aging: genetic wear-and-tear and planned obsolescence. However, he notes that these aging patterns don’t hold true across all of nature. Read below to learn more about human aging process theories.

What Is Planned Obsolescence? Biotech Researcher Explains

What Is Planned Obsolescence? Biotech Researcher Explains

Are human bodies hardwired to break down as they age? What is planned obsolescence? In his book Jellyfish Age Backwards, Nicklas Brendborg discusses two scientific theories that explain why humans age in the way that they do; one of those theories is planned obsolescence. Essentially, this theory states that aging is programmed into our genes. Keep reading for a deeper look into this fascinating theory.

Calorie Restriction and Longevity: What’s the Connection?

A cartoon image of a person holding a burger who isn't practicing calorie restriction

Can reducing your calorie intake extend your lifespan? How much should you be eating every day? In Jellyfish Age Backwards, Nicklas Brendborg theorizes that calorie restriction and longevity are closely linked. While studies are still being done on this, there is some evidence pointing to a longer lifespan for those who eat less. Continue reading to learn more about Brendborg’s studies.

I Heard There Was a Secret Chord by Daniel J. Levitin: Overview

A woman reading a book in front of a fireplace while wearing headphones

What effects does music have on the brain? How can music be used as a form of medicine? In I Heard There Was a Secret Chord, award-winning neuroscientist and musician Daniel J. Levitin discusses music’s history and potential as a form of medicine. Drawing from scientific research, he demonstrates how music therapy can effectively treat conditions ranging from Parkinson’s to chronic pain. Continue reading for a fascinating deep dive into the neuroscience of music.

Music and Memory: How It Can Improve Cognitive Decline

An old record player on a table near a window because music is good for memory decline

What effects can music have on those with cognitive decline? Why is music processed differently than other memories? According to Daniel J. Levitin in I Heard There Was a Secret Chord, music and memory are closely linked. This is because the brain processes music memories differently than typical memories. Here’s why music can be helpful for those with cognitive decline, such as dementia.

2 Medical Anti-Aging Strategies From Jellyfish Age Backwards

A female scientist in a lab studying medical antiaging strategies

Is it possible to reduce or reverse the symptoms of aging? What medical anti-aging strategies does Nicklas Brendborg suggest? Nicklas Brendborg, in his book Jellyfish Age Backwards, uses Turritopsis dohrnii—the immortal jellyfish—as an entry point to explore the latest research on longevity. He discusses two scientific methods of anti-aging: medications and cellular engineering. Continue reading for a closer look at each one.

How Does Music Work in the Brain? (Daniel J. Levitin)

Musical notes around a brain, showing how music works

When you listen to music, what happens in your brain? What’s the difference between focused listening and experiential fusion? In his book I Heard There Was a Secret Chord, neuroscientist and musician Daniel J. Levitin explains how the human brain experiences music. He details why two people experience music differently and why everyone has different tastes. Continue reading to understand how music works in the brain.

Can Cellular Engineering Reverse Aging? Yes, But at a Steep Cost

Glass test tubes in a lab that does cellular engineering

Can the human aging process be reversed? What are the associated risks with cellular engineering? Nicklas Brendborg is a Danish biotechnologist and science writer. He writes in his book Jellyfish Age Backwards that scientists have discovered a couple of ways to reverse aging, however, they pose dangerous health risks. Here’s a look at the two cellular engineering methods that Brendborg discusses.