In Silicon Valley, where tech moguls chase immortality, a controversial new trend is making waves: “young blood” transfusions. Wealthy elites are paying thousands per session to receive plasma from young donors, hoping to reverse aging. But is this cutting-edge science or just another snake oil for the ultra-rich?
Proponents point to early studies showing improved cognition and organ function in older mice after receiving young blood. Startups like Ambrosia and Elevian have capitalized on these findings, offering “parabiosis” treatments. Yet, the FDA issued a stern warning in 2019: “There is no proven clinical benefit… and potential harms.”
Critics call it modern vampirism. With donors (often college students) paid up to $1,000 per liter, the ethics are murky. “It’s predatory,” says Dr. Sarah Greene, a bioethicist. “We’re turning human blood into a luxury commodity.” Meanwhile, clinics discreetly cater to CEOs and celebrities—no questions asked.
Beyond the exorbitant cost (~$8,000 per infusion), risks include infections, allergic reactions, and circulatory overload. Worse? The placebo effect may explain any perceived benefits. “These people want to believe it works,” says Stanford aging expert Dr. Michael Snyder. “But we have zero long-term safety data.”
While legitimate research continues (focusing on isolating beneficial proteins), the unregulated “young blood” market thrives. Some speculate this could lead to a “blood black market”—or worse, incentivize exploitation.
