University of Maryland molecular biologist Kan Cao wasn’t looking for a way to help 50-year-olds look 30 when she discovered how an antioxidant called methylene blue can extend the cellular life of skin cells. She was trying to save teenagers born with a rare genetic disease from dying. In this cover story from the Winter 2025 issue of Terp magazine, writer John Tucker explores progeria from the perspectives of Cao, who continues her research even as she leads what the U.S. Chamber of Commerce named one of America’s top 100 small businesses; a world-renowned geneticist who led the mapping of the human genome; and a young patient wrestling with his mortality. Tucker deftly places all this in the context of the ballooning skin-care industry and of the university’s commitment to pursue research that can save lives.
From the Judges
Judges agreed, this story does an excellent job of weaving science and personal stories, along with what these discoveries mean for both people with progeria and people wanting to slow the aging process. It wraps its arms around what it can mean for everyone.
