Longevity technology (tech) refers to the development of various methods that allow humans to measure, track, and potentially modify the physiological changes associated with aging. The 21st century saw a significant increase in research activity, making space for the emergence of a commercial longevity tech industry enabled by technological advancements. Recent developments, such as AI and blockchain technologies, are being used across the spectrum of longevity research. Their ability to process large datasets and derive intelligent patterns has astronomically changed the parameters of what is possible within the industry. Previously only accessible to the affluent and privileged, the longevity space now has the potential to reach the general population and disrupt the healthcare sector.
The longevity tech market is driven by two key factors. First, the US is experiencing a significant demographic shift, with its aging population expanding. This demographic transformation is creating a pressing need for innovative solutions that can enhance the quality of life and well-being of older adults. Concurrently, there is a palpable surge in tech-enabled longevity research, fostering innovations that are increasingly accessible to the broader public.
The market can be broadly segmented into seven based on the type of solution. Most disruptors are focused on developing longevity-focused cell and gene therapies; this segment also accounts for the largest amount of funding across the industry.
Major global healthcare giants such as Roche, Bayer, and Novartis are among the incumbents active in this space, with partnerships and product collaborations being the most common growth strategy adopted by these players, along with some large acquisitions to accelerate the product portfolio.
Most disruptors in longevity tech, particularly in the longevity-focused cell and gene therapy segment, are at the seed/pre-seed stage, despite having raised several hundred million dollars in funding and nearly 80% of all companies having been founded in the last decade, indicating the significant financial and time investment required to move therapies from the research/testing stage to market.
Altos Labs—a startup reportedly backed by Jeff Bezos—was by far the most funded company in the space, launching in 2022 with USD 3 billion in funding to explore cellular rejuvenation.
Major global pharmaceutical giants such as Roche, Bayer, and Novartis are among the incumbents active in longevity tech, with a greater focus on longevity-focused cell and gene therapies and therapies for sensory loss. Big Tech companies such as Apple and Alphabet have a presence in diagnostics and lifestyles through their wearable devices such as the Apple Watch and Fitbit. The most common growth strategy for incumbents has been partnerships and product collaborations with startups and other incumbents.
Roche’s acquisition of Genentech more than a decade ago for ~USD 46.8 billion remains the largest longevity tech acquisition to date. The largest recent deals were Alphabet’s acquisition of Fitbit for ~USD 2.1 billion in 2021, followed by Novartis’ acquisition of Gyroscope Therapeutics for ~USD 1.5 billion in 2021 to expand its presence in sensory loss therapies.
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