Core Insights - The article highlights the annual selection of the "Top Ten Advances in Life Sciences in China" by the Chinese Association for Science and Technology, showcasing significant innovations in the field aimed at enhancing public health and addressing critical issues in life sciences [2][36]. Group 1: Innovations in Cancer Treatment - A new strategy for enhancing and reducing toxicity in nasopharyngeal cancer immunotherapy has been developed, demonstrating a 44% reduction in failure risk and an increase in survival rate from 77.3% to 86.9% through the use of PD-1 monoclonal antibodies [4]. - The research also led to a decrease in chemotherapy-induced vomiting rates from 59.8% to 26.2% and reduced severe radiation therapy side effects from 33.2% to 21.6% [4]. Group 2: Caloric Restriction and Longevity - Research from Xiamen University identified a molecule called taurocholic acid that significantly increases in serum after caloric restriction, promoting health and longevity across various animal models [7]. - The study revealed that taurocholic acid activates the TULP3 receptor, which in turn activates Sirtuins, linking to the AMPK pathway, thus providing a theoretical basis for developing interventions that mimic caloric restriction effects [9]. Group 3: Neuroregeneration in Stroke Treatment - A novel "brain repair gel" developed by a collaborative team aims to improve the microenvironment post-stroke, promoting the regeneration of neurons and restoring sensory-motor functions [11]. - This approach marks a paradigm shift from passive protection to active regeneration in stroke treatment, with ongoing clinical trials validating its safety and efficacy [13]. Group 4: Metabolite Diversity and Disease Intervention - A team from Peking University discovered new gut microbiota-derived metabolites that regulate metabolic diseases, identifying orphan receptors as new targets for intervention [15]. - The research utilized AI to uncover specific synthetic enzymes, leading to the development of targeted intervention strategies for metabolic disorders [15]. Group 5: Advances in Genetic Engineering - The Chinese Academy of Sciences has developed an AI-driven protein engineering method that enables large-scale precise editing of DNA, which could revolutionize genetic disease treatment and crop breeding [24]. - This breakthrough represents a significant advancement in the application of AI in life sciences, showcasing the potential for deep learning to address biological challenges [24]. Group 6: Aging Interventions - Research teams have created a "protein scale" to quantify organ aging and identified key mechanisms driving aging, including the role of betaine as a "exercise mimetic" that slows multi-organ aging [26]. - The study also developed engineered anti-aging stem cells that can provide systemic protection against inflammation, contributing to the advancement of precision medicine in aging research [26]. Group 7: Insect Pheromone Research - A comprehensive analysis of locust aggregation pheromones has been conducted, leading to the development of specific inhibitors that can effectively control locust behavior [19]. - This research provides a foundational understanding for developing precise pest control strategies, marking a significant achievement in the field of entomology [19]. Group 8: Deep-Sea Evolutionary Mechanisms - A collaborative study has decoded the evolutionary processes of deep-sea animals, revealing how they adapt to extreme environments and providing insights into biodiversity [34]. - The findings challenge previous notions about deep-sea evolution, highlighting it as a site of innovation rather than a terminus for life [34].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the implications of recent research on calorie restriction (CR) and intermittent fasting (IF) on health and longevity, highlighting the potential trade-offs between lifespan extension and overall health [9][11][19]. Summary by Sections Research Findings - A study conducted by Calico Life Sciences in collaboration with other institutions revealed that calorie restriction can extend lifespan significantly, with a 40% CR group showing a lifespan increase of 36.3% compared to ad libitum (AL) groups [13][15]. - Intermittent fasting (IF) showed some benefits in lifespan extension, but its effects were less pronounced than those of calorie restriction, with the 1D and 2D fasting groups showing only slight increases in lifespan [13][19]. Health Implications - While CR can extend lifespan, it may lead to adverse health effects, such as reduced immune function and weight loss, which could increase infection risk [15][19]. - The study found that IF could also have health risks, such as increased red blood cell distribution width (RDW), which is associated with aging and mortality [16][19]. Weight and Longevity Paradox - The research highlighted a paradox where lower body weight does not necessarily correlate with longer lifespan, suggesting that maintaining an appropriate weight and fat content is crucial for longevity [17][19]. - Genetic factors were found to play a significant role in lifespan variation, with 23.6% of lifespan variation in younger mice explained by genetics, compared to only 7.4% by diet [17][19]. Conclusion - The findings suggest that while dietary restrictions can extend lifespan, they may compromise health, indicating a need for caution regarding extreme dieting methods [19]. Further research is required to understand the specific impacts of these dietary practices on human longevity [19].