Dr. Eric Topol wanted to know how some people live to very old ages without major health problems. Was it their genes…or something else?

The prominent cardiologist conducted research on people who were still healthy at 85 years old and beyond, sequencing and scrutinizing their DNA to understand what set these “super agers” apart.

His research revealed that it wasn’t so much their genes that boosted their longevity, but instead their behaviors that influenced their health.

Now, Topol is using what he learned from these “super agers” to boost his own lifespan—and he shares his research-inspired plan with WSJ’s Amy Dockser Marcus.

In the coming years, more people can become super agers by adopting these behaviors, Topol writes in his recent book “Super Agers: An Evidence-Based Approach to Longevity.” Cancer, heart trouble and neurodegeneration can take decades to develop—leaving time to slow, delay or even prevent them, he argues.

For now, the 70-year-old is trying to practice what he preaches. The self-described “techno optimist” has adopted a practical routine that prioritizes exercise, sleep, diet, mental health—and thorough health testing.

More on this topic:

• The longevity business is booming, but its scientists are clashing. (Read)
• 🎧 Is there a limit to our lifespan? (Listen)
• For $250,000, longevity clinics promise better health and status. (Read)

🎤 Live Q&A: Do you have questions for Dr. Topol or WSJ's reporters? The cardiologist will join WSJ to answer subscriber questions online on Tuesday, May 13 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. ET. Submit your questions here.

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• Russlynn Ali, Co-Founder and CEO, XQ Institute
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• Scott Kirby, CEO, United Airlines

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Last week, we reported on the AI tools job hunters are using to apply to new jobs. A reader shared her thoughts on whether she’d use AI to find new roles:

• “I would use AI to not only generate possible job postings, but also to eliminate postings I’m unqualified for. I have also used it to help with résumé writing, mainly to rephrase duties/skills to better align with what the potential employer is looking for.”—Peggy Tapia, California

(Response has been condensed and edited.)

• A sister created an AI video of her slain brother to address his killer in court. (The Washington Post)
• This patient’s Neuralink brain implant gets a boost from generative AI. (MIT Technology Review)
• Silicon Valley is coming for the Pentagon’s $1 trillion budget. (Bloomberg)

Thanks for reading The Future of Everything. We cover the innovation and tech transforming the way we live, work and play. This newsletter was written by Conor Grant. Get in touch with us at future@wsj.com.

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