Rano Raraku crater: Discovery site of rapamycin, potential key to human longevity. Rano Raraku crater is now a freshwater lake and the largest crater on Easter Island It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site In 1964, a Canadian medical expedition discovered rapamycin in the soil here
The Rano Raraku crater holds an unexpected secret — in 1964, a pharmaceutical expedition led by Canadian scientist Surendra Sehgal discovered rapamycin in its soil. This immunosuppressant prevents organ transplant rejection and is used in cancer and cardiovascular treatments. Remarkably, studies suggest rapamycin may extend mammalian lifespan. Here's the intriguing part: this compound was first discovered in this specific crater on Easter Island. The crater itself is now a freshwater lake and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Key Facts
- Rano Raraku crater is now a freshwater lake and the largest crater on Easter Island
- It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- In 1964, a Canadian medical expedition discovered rapamycin in the soil here
- Rapamycin is an immunosuppressant that prevents organ transplant rejection
- The drug is also used in cancer treatment and cardiovascular disease treatment
- Studies show rapamycin can increase mammalian lifespan by 15-30%
- The compound is only found in this specific crater on Earth
Related site: Rano Raraku — view location, images, and history on the Ancient Nerds map.
Source: Easter Island Adventure: Moai at Sunrise + Hidden Caves by Wandering Wolf