The inaugural Klotho Conference & Scientific Seminar, held September 15–16 at the UCI Beall Applied Innovation Center, brought together leading researchers, clinicians, and innovators to discuss recent Klotho biology research, its therapeutic potential, and diagnostic advances. This event represents a pivotal moment in translating decades of Klotho research into actionable strategies for healthspan extension, with significant implications for global aging populations.
The conference opened with a "State of the Industry" address by Menachem Abraham, followed by a keynote from Dr. Makoto Kuroo, who discovered the Klotho gene. Their talks framed the current landscape of Klotho research, from molecular pathways to clinical translation. Since 1997, 4,390 papers have been published on Klotho, establishing clear connections between low circulating Klotho levels and accelerated aging processes. Research indicates that low Klotho increases cancer risk, leads to earlier decline in cognition and memory with higher likelihood of brain disorders, and elevates risk of heart failure and kidney failure.
Carmela Abraham presented results of a Klotho-mRNA-LNP approach to increasing Klotho levels, while Petr Sramek presented compelling human case studies exploring Klotho-based therapies. A dedicated panel led by Dr. Dena Dubal and Dr. Miguel Chillon examined emerging evidence for Klotho's neuroprotective role, including its impact on neurodegenerative disease models and potential for gene therapy applications. Dr. Ido Wolf and Dr. Tamar Rubinek summarized research on Klotho's potential in malignant tumor suppression, and Dr. Assumpció Bosch delivered a presentation on Klotho gene therapy for ALS.
The conference highlighted how low Klotho leads to higher levels of calcification and inflammation, muscle atrophy and sarcopenia, and may contribute to depression, anxiety, and addictions. Additional research presented showed low Klotho inhibits sexual health, is a major underlying cause of joint osteoarthritis, increases likelihood of epileptic seizures in those under 65, and leads to earlier aging-related hair loss. Skin damage and wrinkles, age-related vision deterioration, hearing loss, osteoporosis, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, susceptibility to infections, slower wound healing, accelerated telomere shortening, and epigenetic age acceleration are all associated with low Klotho levels.
Dr. Iliya Lefterov and Dr. Radosveta Koldamova discussed how Klotho signaling intersects with inflammatory pathways and its implications for chronic disease and aging. A panel including Dr. Mona EzzatVilinov and celebrity fitness expert Ramona Braganza explored Klotho's role in muscle regeneration, functional mobility, and exercise-driven healthspan. Dr. Gail Humble discussed cutting-edge research into Klotho's use in medical aesthetics covering skin, hair, and tissue regeneration, while Dr. Doris Taylor presented on Klotho's regenerative applications for organs and cardiovascular tissue.
Dr. Ian White delivered a keynote outlining the translational path for Klotho therapies, including how naturally derived human Klotho sources can move into clinical trial phases. Dr. Joseph Cleaver gave a luncheon keynote on lifestyle, aging, and Klotho, synthesizing scientific insight with practical messages for wellness practitioners. Studies are underway to prove that higher Klotho levels can reverse the negative findings associated with low Klotho.
Attendees engaged in interactive Q&A sessions and roundtables to build collaborative pathways for Klotho research and commercialization. Several research groups indicated plans to accelerate clinical development of Klotho-based gene therapies. The conference catalyzed new partnerships, including academic institutions, biotech companies, and longevity-focused investor networks, reinforcing the unified mission of raising Klotho biology into mainstream medical and therapeutic strategy to promote healthy aging. The success of this first Klotho Conference sets the stage for annual gatherings, with future conferences expanding to include translational clinical trials, diagnostics development, and policy frameworks to bring Klotho therapies to patients responsibly and equitably. Conference presentations are available at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIzjBuzofFehaUfXU0GdvI2X8cr3gm6SY.
