As summer winds down and the crisp whisper of autumn draws near, many of us feel the itch to change up our interiors. But transitioning between seasons doesnt mean going full pumpkin-patch-mode on September 1st. Theres a beautiful in-between , a balance between light and cozy, bright and muted. Thats where transitional fall decor comes in. If you love early fall decorating but dread overwhelming your space with too much orange or too many leaves, here are 17 thoughtful, stylish ways to gently usher in the new season , without overdoing it.1.Lean Into Texture, Not Just ColorImage Source: MarthastewartInstead of diving headfirst into traditional fall hues, start by playing with texture. Adding tactile elements like nubby cotton, linen blends, or soft boucl throws can instantly warm up a space without changing the color palette drastically. Think of it as layering your home the way youd layer your clothes for early fall. A woven basket here, a knitted pillow there , its about subtle shifts that feel cozy without screaming autumn. Textures like velvet and wool give off warmth visually and physically, making your space feel ready for those first cool evenings while still holding onto summers lightness.2. Trade Summer Bedding for Lush LayersImage Source: MarthastewartThat breezy white quilt or tropical duvet you loved all summer? Its time for a soft, seasonal swap. Try deeper-toned linens, a muted flannel sheet set, or even a light quilt in colors like taupe, olive, or burnt amber. The goal isnt heavy bedding , its layering smarter for fluctuating temps. Add a folded throw at the foot of the bed and a textured lumbar pillow to visually signal the change in season. This small change can make your entire bedroom feel different and instantly more restful. Plus, its one of the easiest ways to transition without clutter or effort.3. Create a Table That Feels Harvest-InspiredImage Source: MarthastewartYou dont need a cornucopia centerpiece to make your dining table feel fall-ready. Try mixing natural materials like linen runners, wooden chargers, and handmade ceramics. Accent with a few branches or dried florals in a low vase. Soft tones like dusty rose, clay, or sage green keep things fresh but seasonal. If youre hosting guests or just want to enjoy cozier meals at home, this easy update sets the tone. Transitional fall decor doesnt need to be loud , just thoughtful. A well-styled table is the perfect nod to fall that still feels in harmony with late summer light.4. Toss on a Throw BlanketImage Source: MarthastewartYoud be amazed what a single throw blanket can do. Folded neatly over the back of your couch or draped effortlessly across a chair, a textured throw immediately adds warmth. Look for lightweight knits in soft fall tones like cinnamon, oatmeal, or olive. It should feel cozy but not suffocating , ideal for that in-between season when its chilly in the morning but warm in the afternoon. Its a tactile, simple way to layer in fall without needing to replace your whole color scheme. And bonus: its functional, too. This is early fall decorating at its easiest and most effective.5. Warm Up Your Patio or PorchImage Source: MarthastewartDont abandon your outdoor space just yet. Transition your porch or balcony by swapping out bright summer cushions for ones in deeper, moodier tones , think rust, charcoal, or goldenrod. Add a few lanterns or string lights for that soft glow, and maybe layer a small outdoor rug for warmth underfoot. This way, your exterior reflects the seasonal shift just like the inside of your home. It doesnt take much to make it cozy. Even a potted mum or a knit throw can make your seating area feel fresh for fall while still being functional during warmer days.6. Update Wall Art with a Subtle Seasonal ShiftImage Source: MarthastewartInstead of overhauling every piece on your wall, pick just a couple of spots to refresh. Swapping bright, summery prints for artwork with autumn tones , like soft landscapes, abstracts in burnt sienna, or vintage botanical sketches , is a low-effort, high-impact way to move into fall. You dont need to plaster leaves everywhere. Just choosing richer tones or more textural mediums (like canvas instead of glossy prints) sets the mood. Wall art is often overlooked when it comes to seasonal decorating, but it can really shift the energy of a space in an understated way.7. Add a Touch of Wood and Woven WarmthImage Source: MarthastewartMaterials matter. Incorporating wooden accents , whether its a new bowl on your table or a reclaimed wood mirror , naturally brings autumnal warmth. Similarly, woven textures like rattan, cane, or seagrass baskets offer cozy structure and visual interest. These materials echo nature without being theme-y, and they work beautifully in neutral or modern spaces. A woven tray for your coffee table or a wooden pedestal in the kitchen can quietly say fall without announcing it. These earthy elements are perfect examples of transitional fall decor , they ground the space while still feeling light and livable.8. Experiment with Unexpected Fall ColorsImage Source: MarthastewartWho says fall has to be orange and brown? For a modern twist, try accents in muted mauve, forest green, ochre, or even deep navy. These colors feel grounded and seasonal but a little unexpected. You can test them out with small touches , like napkins, candles, pillow covers, or vases. Its a fun way to dip into autumn home decor without going the traditional route. These hues still evoke that cozy, earthy vibe we crave in the fall but with a little more personality. Youll keep things fresh and transitional , not stereotypical or overdone.9. Bring Nature IndoorsImage Source: House BeautifulThe simplest way to transition into fall? Take a walk. Bring home foraged branches, pinecones, or acorns and display them in vases, bowls, or trays. Mix in dried florals or seed pods for longevity. This is seasonal styling at its most authentic , subtle, budget-friendly, and calming. These natural elements introduce organic texture and tell a story about the season. Best of all, it doesnt clutter your space. Whether its a bare branch in a ceramic vase or a bowl of nuts on the kitchen table, its about celebrating change in its most natural form.10. Add Character with Antique Autumn TouchesImage Source: StacylingVintage and thrifted pieces add soul to any room, and fall is the perfect time to lean into their charm. Look for aged wood trays, brass candleholders, old books with warm spines, or weathered ceramic pitchers. These items tell a story and feel timeless , perfect for easing into the nostalgic vibe of autumn. Arrange them in vignettes with dried florals or place a couple on open shelving. Vintage decor doesnt shout fall, but it hints at it beautifully. Plus, its sustainable, personal, and blends effortlessly with both modern and traditional aesthetics.11. Warm Up the Kitchen with Copper AccentsImage Source: VogueIf your kitchen still feels like summer, a few well-placed copper pieces can shift the whole mood. A hammered copper pot, vintage measuring spoons, or a tea kettle displayed on the stove brings warmth and a cozy, cook-ready vibe. Copper pairs beautifully with white tile, wood countertops, and just about any color scheme. Its functional, stylish, and doesnt take up much space. Whether youre an avid home chef or not, this material makes the room feel more seasonal without screaming fall. Bonus: it ages beautifully over time and photographs like a dream.12. Let There Be (Warm) LightImage Source: PinterestOne of the easiest ways to nudge your home into fall is by adjusting the lighting. Think table lamps with warm bulbs, fairy lights strung over a mirror, or even switching out cooler white light bulbs for softer, amber-toned ones. The result is an instant cozy glow that feels like early evening on an autumn day , even when its still warm outside. A little mood lighting goes a long way in creating that transitional fall atmosphere. Instead of adding new decor, youre enhancing the energy. Bonus: these changes look magical at night and are perfect for setting a relaxed vibe.13. Bring in the Grounded Beauty of Earthy HuesYou dont need to completely repaint your walls or toss out summers bright to embrace autumn , just work in some grounded, earthy tones. Think clay, olive, rust, taupe, and ochre. These colors mimic the shifting leaves and golden-hour light but feel natural and unforced. Try incorporating them through pillow covers, vases, dishware, or linens. Even a clay-colored candle or terracotta pot makes a difference. Earthy tones are ideal for transitional fall decor because they pair beautifully with summer neutrals and slowly tip your home toward fall without overcommitting.14. Burn Fall Scented CandlesImage Source: PinterestVisual and aromatic, scented candles do double duty. Choose jars in amber glass, matte white ceramic, or minimalist metal tones for a moody, elegant presentation. Fragrances like sandalwood, tobacco, fig, or smoked vanilla work well for early fall decorating. Group candles in threes, or place one beside a vase on your shelf. These are easy to capture in photos and add ambiance without requiring a complete decor overhaul. Dont forget to match the scent to the vibe you want to evoke,cozy cabin, warm bakery, or earthy retreat.15. Ground Your Home with Layered RugsImage Source: PinterestIf your space feels a little too summery, try layering rugs to introduce warmth and depth. Start with a neutral jute or flatweave base, then top it with a smaller patterned or textured rug in muted autumn tones like burgundy, navy, or rust. The layered look not only adds comfort underfoot but also creates a styled, cozy effect that instantly signals fall. Its a decorators trick that works especially well in living rooms and bedrooms. The best part? Its reversible , when spring returns, just remove the top rug and keep your airy foundation intact.16. Warm Things Up with Leather and SuedeImage Source: PinterestLeather and suede are perfect for bridging seasons, theyre rich in texture but not as heavy as wool or fur. Think small accents: a leather ottoman, suede throw pillows, or even a few leather-bound books styled on a coffee table. Their earthy tones bring depth and coziness while blending beautifully with late summer neutrals. A cognac leather pouf or soft suede pillow whispers fall without demanding attention. These accents work in any design style, modern, farmhouse, or eclectic, making them a versatile part of autumn home decor. Theyre durable, timeless, and add instant sophistication to your space.17. Keep It MinimalImage Source: Better Homes & GardensWhen it comes to transitional fall decor, less is more. Instead of filling every surface with pumpkins and leaves, choose just a few meaningful updates: a cozy throw, a warm-toned candle, or a simple dried arrangement. The goal is to create atmosphere, not clutter. Open space feels refreshing after summer, and minimal seasonal touches ensure your home looks curated rather than chaotic. By keeping your decorating intentional, each item feels special and impactful. Think of it as editing your space for fall rather than redecorating it completely. This approach allows your home to breathe while still embracing autumns cozy spirit.Final ThoughtsTransitioning your home from summer to fall doesnt need to be dramatic or overwhelming. By layering textures, softening your lighting, experimenting with earthy tones, and bringing in natural accents, you can ease into autumn with intention and style. Whether youre adding a leather accent, a simple dried floral arrangement, or just swapping your bedding, every small step contributes to a home that feels ready for crisp mornings and golden evenings. For more inspiration on styling your space seasonally, from transitional fall decor to timeless design ideas explore Home Designing, where thoughtful interiors meet practical beauty.

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MacworldThe massive IFA consumer electronics show in Berlin is the CES of Europe and is attended by even more people than the iconic Las Vegas event. Macworld walked the 27 halls for you to find the most interesting new Apple-related products, breezily ignoring Windows PCs and Nintendo Switch accessories.The new Qi 2.2 (or Qi2 25W as some are calling it) wireless charging technology was the star of the show at IFA when it comes to charging accessories. The new wireless charging tech takes speeds from the humdrum 7.5W and once-exciting 15W to a wired-charging-like 25W. It means you could charge an iPhone 16 to 50 percent in around 25 minutes (under ideal conditions). And it has to be an iPhone 16 or an upcoming iPhone 17 (running at least iOS 26) to get the benefit of the full 25W. Older iPhones can still use the new chargers, but at the old 15W charging pace.Simon JaryAukey MagFusion ArkAukey is calling its MagFusion Ark the worlds first modular true wireless charger, and its certainly got our attention. It looks like a set of speakers but consists of a long base with with three detachable 25W spheres, for a total of six charging points.It is truly wireless because MagFusion Ark integrates both Rx (receiving power) and Tx (transmitting power). When docked, the spheres wirelessly recharge from the base while simultaneously charging devices placed on them. When detached, they transform into portable 6700mAh power banks.MagFusion Ark will be available in Q1 2026. The flagship three-sphere base will be joined by one-device and two-device base options.Simon JaryAnker Prime Triple Display Docking StationThis 14-in-1 USB-C triple-display dock has a whopping 14 ports, including 140W upstream USB-C, three USB-C, three USB-A, dual HDMI, DisplayPort, Ethernet, audio, and SD/TF slots. Compatible with DisplayLink software, the dock supports three displays (8K/4K/4K) on even the M1 and M2 MacBooks.It has a smart display of its own that shows real-time USB-C charging power, data transfer status, display signal, and temperature. It should cost $300 when it launches.Simon JaryESR Shift iPad Keyboard and CaseESR also had a busy IFA, with iPhone 17 versions of its popular cases, plus a raft of Qi2 25W chargers. iPads werent overlooked, with a couple of new cases and keyboards that caught our eye, including the flagship Shift Keyboard and Case. The keyboard has a fully responsive MacBook-like trackpad that can be detached from the case to allow for more ergonomic positioning (within 10 feet).It can be set up in three modes: 0-165-degree landscape, 70-degree portrait, and 20-degree for drawing.Simon JarySatechi OnTheGo rangeA more affordable iPad keyboard was shown by Satechi. Its Onthego Bluetooth keyboard is significantly less expensive than Apples or other solutions. Up to three devicesnot just iPads but iPhones, toocan be paired via Bluetooth. Its available in black and Sand colors that match the new OnTheGo Mac mice that join Satechis popular M1 Bluetooth mice.Satechi also showed off a wide range of products that work with Apples Find My app, including the usual luggage tags and key fobs but also passport covers and glasses case.Simon JaryUgreen MagFlow Magnetic Power BankUgreens MagFlow Magnetic Power Bank (available in 10000mAh and 20000mAh models) was one of the first Qi2 2.2-certified 25W products (starting at $89.99 / 79.99 / 89,99). It can power an iPhone 16 Pro Max to 50 percent in around 30 minutes, a speed that was previously reserved for less convenient cabled charging. Both models also include a handy built-in 30W USB-C cable that doubles as a carry strap.Ugreens MagFlow family includes desktop chargers and a range of nifty foldable travel chargers, all rated at 25W for the iPhone 16 and 17.Simon JaryiVanky FusionDock Max 2iVankys FusionDock Max stood out from the crowd with its dual Thunderbolt 4 chipsets, allowing for an unmatched number of Thunderbolt and other high-end ports. At IFA the company showed off its new 23-port FusionDock Max 2, which it claims is the only Thunderbolt 5 dock that enables native (not requiring any further software) triple-display on MacBook, with next-gen 120 Gbps transfer speeds, 140W fast charging, 2.5GbE, and 23 high-performance ports.With dual-chip powerThunderbolt 5 controller and a DPAlt chipMacBooks with an M-series Max processor could run three displays (2x 6K at 60Hz and 1x 4K at 60Hz) via two upstream connections to the dock.Simon JaryBaseus PicoGo AF21 3-in-125W Wireless ChargerThe Baseus PicoGo AF21 3-in-1 Wireless Charger also uses super-speedy Qi2 25W and unfolds Transformer-like from a tiny package into a clever multi-device charger for iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods. It looks quite different from other foldable 3-in-1 chargers and creates a solid but pocketable charging station.Baseus showed off a full range of 25W PicoGo chargers and magnetic power banks, plus an exciting new Inspire family of headphones and earbuds.Simon JaryAlogic Clarity 6K 32-inch Touch MonitorAlogic unveiled a large new range of monitors, but maybe most exciting is the Clarity 6K Touch, which is the worlds first 6K touchscreen for Mac (or Windows, for that matter). Joining the companys 27-inch Clarity 5K Touch, the new display boasts a larger 32-inch screen. Resolution of this Retina-quality display is an impressive 6016 x 3384 pixels, with 99 percent Adobe RGB/DCI-P3 colour accuracy and Avg. Delta E <1.10-point multitouch with full MPP 2.0 stylus compatibility creates something like a 32-inch iPad. It ships with Alogics innovative Fold Stand that can shift between upright mode and flat drafting-table mode. The Clarity 6K will be available from mid-October for $1,999.99/1,599.99/1,899.99.Simon JaryAlogic Omni Fold StandI said that Alogic used IFA to unveil a bunch of new products, and its new Omni Fold Stand includes an integrated docking groove that fits the M4 Mac mini. It is an option for the new 145W Aspekt UHD 4K Docking Monitor thats available in either touch and non-touch variants with anti-glare and gloss surface finish. Combined, the Aspekt monitor and Omni Stand effectively create an iMac-like 32-inch all-in-one. The Omni Fold monitor stands will be available from November 2025 for $329.99/249.99/299.99.Simon JaryBelkin Stage PowerGrip 10K Power BankBelkin released several tables worth of new products at IFA, including the Stage PowerGrip, a DSLR-style ergonomic grip for iPhone photography, that doubles up as a high-capacity 10000mAh power bank so you can keep taking pictures all day without the iPhones battery running flat. It also features a built-in retractable USB-C cable. It uses Bluetooth pairing to enable the shutter button on the top of the grip to let you take pictures via the iOS camera app.The company also showed off its many new IFA-announced 25W charging products, including the Belkin UltraCharge Pro 3-in-1 Magnetic Charging Dock exclusively reviewed by Macworld.

The AI skills shortage plaguing enterprises just got a high-profile response. OpenAI has unveiled an ambitious workforce development strategy that positions the ChatGPT maker as both a technology provider and a talent pipeline operator a move that could reshape how companies find and train AI-capable workers.The company announced plans for a dedicated jobs platform and expanded certification programs, committing to train 10 million Americans by 2030. Major partners, including Walmart, which employs 1.6 million people in the US, signed on immediately.We want to put AI, and the power that comes with it, in the hands of as many people as possible, the company said in its announcement. But its also important to make sure those people know how to use AI to be more productive, shape the world around them, and control their own destiny in new ways.But OpenAIs timing reflects desperation as much as opportunity. Goldman Sachs research warned that AI could automate 300 million jobs globally, while IDC projected the current skills gap will cost organizations $5.5 trillion by 2026. Companies are caught in a bind: they need AI talent to stay competitive, but qualified workers remain scarce.A structural leap beyond technologyRather than simply waiting for the market to catch up, OpenAI is taking direct action.OpenAIs move into workforce development is not a side project; it is a structural leap, said Sanchit Vir Gogia, chief analyst and CEO at Greyhound Research. By setting out to certify 10 million Americans by 2030, the company is no longer just building AI tools but deliberately shaping the workforce that will power them.The numbers underscore the urgency. When Microsofts research shows 66% of leaders wont hire candidates without AI skills, certifications move from optional to essential.The market has hit a wall, said Charlie Dai, VP and principal analyst at Forrester. AI literacy has become a core economic competency, but the supply chain for that competency is broken.Building the talent ecosystemOpenAIs solution centers on creating what Dai called a closed-loop talent ecosystemcontrolling both the technology and the workforce that implements it. The company plans to weave certification directly into ChatGPT and tie it to a dedicated Jobs Platform.If youre a business looking to hire an AI-savvy employee, or you just need help with a specific task, finding the right person can be hit-or-miss, Fidji Simo, CEO of Applications at OpenAI, said in the statement. The OpenAI Jobs Platform will have knowledgeable, experienced candidates at every level.The expanded OpenAI Academy will offer credentials ranging from basic AI literacy to advanced prompt engineering. Anyone will be able to prepare for the certification in ChatGPTs Study mode and become certified without leaving the app, the announcement read.OpenAI is creating early access to pre-qualified talent, Dai explained. This could give their partners a first-mover advantage in AI adoption.Echoes of Cloud Wars strategyAnalysts see parallels to previous technology shifts. Amazon AWS and Microsoft Azure drove massive certification programs during the cloud era, skilling millions of developers, noted Neil Shah, VP for Research at Counterpoint Research. OpenAI is following the same playbook for AI.The strategy worked for cloud providers, who built loyal developer communities that influenced enterprise purchasing decisions. OpenAI appears to be betting that certified workers will prefer and recommend its tools over those of its competitors.The future of retail will be defined by people who know how to use AI technology, Walmart CEO John Furner added in the OpenAI statement, announcing plans to train the retailers entire US workforce through OpenAIs programs.Quality concerns amid rapid scalingBut experts warn that scale without depth risks creating meaningless credentials. A credential that tests only prompting tricks will quickly become wallpaper, Gogia cautioned. Enterprises need professionals whose training covers productivity, governance, compliance, and responsible use.OpenAI acknowledged the track record of such programs has been mixed. We realize that upskilling or reskilling programs have a mixed record, and havent always led to better jobs or higher wages, the company said. But weve studied what has and hasnt worked in the past.Dai cautioned that certifications alone wont solve the skills crisis. IT leaders should assess credibility and alignment with real-world tasks, he said. Certifications must complement hands-on experience, not replace it.Certifications are already shifting wage structures, with certified staff receiving faster promotions and higher bill rates, Gogia said. But he emphasized that courses must explicitly include bias, fairness, and privacy considerations ethics cannot be bolted on later.Political maneuvering meets market strategyOpenAI cleverly tied its initiative to public policy, announcing it as part of White House AI literacy expansion efforts. OpenAI is playing a double game: securing credibility as a responsible innovator while also shaping national workforce standards to its own design, Gogia observed.The workforce disruption is accelerating. McKinsey research estimates 400 million to 800 million people worldwide may need new jobs by 2030 due to automation. Goldman Sachs analysis identified the jobs most at risk: computer programmers, accountants, legal assistants, customer service representatives, and credit analysts.Jobs will look different, companies will have to adapt, and all of us from shift workers to CEOs will have to learn how to work in new ways, OpenAI noted.

ESET researchers have uncovered a professional Chinese cybercrime group thats manipulating SEO to boost traffic to gambling websites.Nicknamed GhostRedirector by cybersecurity software company ESET, the bad actor is believed to have compromised at least 65 Windows servers located mainly in Brazil, Thailand, and Vietnam. The researchers claim that the group is using two custom-made tools: a passive C++ backdoor that theyve dubbed Rungan, and a malicious Internet Information Services (IIS) module that theyve named Gamshen.Rungan can execute commands on a compromised server, while Gamshen can carry out SEO fraud to manipulate search engine results. This can boost the page ranking of a website, which is being used by the crime group to increase traffic to gambling websites.Although it can only modify responses from Googlebot, so will not affect regular website visitors, the use of such a tool can damage host websites reputations in the long term.The researchers have found a series of other custom tools in use by GhostRedirector, as well as some familiar names in the world of cybercrime, like EfsPotato and BadPotato. These are thought to be used as back-ups if Rungan should fail, or to attack servers with higher security privileges.We believe with medium confidence that a China-aligned threat actor was behind these attacks, reads the statement from ESET.How to protect against cybercrime toolsTo protect against such tools, ESET recommends ensuring that organizations are using dedicated accounts, strong passwords, and multifactor authentication wherever possible. Those steps are especially important for IIS server administrators.This is because GhostRedirector and other cybercriminals can only deploy custom IIS tools on already-compromised servers. Blocking them from accessing them in the first place protects against custom malware like Rungan and, by extension, Gamshen.ESET also advises that admins should ensure that native IIS modules can be installed only from trusted sources and are signed by a trusted provider, ideally requiring two parties for successful installation.Featured image: UnsplashThe post Pro Chinese cybercrime group manipulates SEO to boost gambling websites appeared first on ReadWrite.

This week Im writing from Manchester, where Ive been attendinga conference on aging. Wednesday was full of talks and presentations by scientists who are trying to understand the nitty-gritty of agingall the way down to the molecular level. Once we can understand the complex biology of aging, we should be able to slow or prevent the onset of age-related diseases, they hope.Then my editor forwarded me a video of the leaders of Russia and China talking about immortality. These days at 70 years old you are still a child, Chinas Xi Jinping, 72, was translated as saying, according to footage livestreamed by CCTV tomultiplemedia outlets.With the developments of biotechnology, human organs can be continuously transplanted, and people can live younger and younger, and even achieve immortality, Russias Vladimir Putin, also 72, is reported to have replied.SERGEI BOBYLEV, SPUTNIK, KREMLIN POOL PHOTO VIA APTheres a striking contrast between that radical vision and the incremental longevity science presented at the meeting. Repeated rounds of organ transplantation surgery arent likely to help anyone radically extend their lifespan anytime soon.First, back to Putins proposal: the idea of continually replacing aged organs to stay young. Its a simplistic way to think about aging. After all, aging is so complicated that researchers cant agree on what causes it, why it occurs, or even how to define it, let alone treat it.Having said that, there may be some merit to the idea of repairing worn-out body parts with biological or synthetic replacements. Replacement therapiesincluding bioengineered organsare being developed by multiple research teams. Some have already been tested in people. This week, lets take a look at the idea of replacement therapies.No one fully understands why our organs start to fail with age. On the face of it, replacing them seems like a good idea. After all, we already know how to do organ transplants. Theyve been a part of medicine since the 1950s and have been used tosave hundreds of thousands of lives in the US alone.And replacing old organs with young ones might have more broadly beneficial effects. When a young mouse is stitched to an old one, the older mouse benefits from the arrangement, and its health seems to improve.The problem is that we dont really know why. We dont know what it is about young body tissues that makes them health-promoting. We dont know how long these effects might last in a person. We dont know how different organ transplants will compare, either. Might a young heart be more beneficial than a young liver? No one knows.And thats before you consider the practicalities of organ transplantation. There is already a shortage of donor organsthousands of people die on waiting lists. Transplantation requires major surgery and, typically, a lifetime of prescription drugs that damp down the immune system,leaving a person more susceptible to certain infections and diseases.So the idea of repeated organ transplantations shouldnt really be a particularly appealing one. I dont think thats going to happen anytime soon, says Jesse Poganik, who studies aging at Brigham and Womens Hospital in Boston and is also in Manchester for the meeting.Poganik has been collaborating with transplant surgeons in his own research. The surgeries are good, but theyre not simple, he tells me. And they come with real risks. His own 24-year-old cousin developed a form of cancer after a liver and heart transplant. She died a few weeks ago, he says.So when it comes to replacing worn-out organs, scientists are looking for both biological and synthetic alternatives.Weve been replacing body parts for centuries. Wooden toes were used as far back as the 15th century. Joint replacements have been around for more than a hundred years. And major innovations over the last 70 years have given us devices like pacemakers, hearing aids, brain implants, and artificial hearts.Scientists are exploring other ways to make tissues and organs, too. There are different approaches here, but they include everything from injecting stem cells to seeding scaffolds with cells in a lab.In 1999, researchers used volunteers own cells to seed bladder-shaped collagen scaffolds. The resulting bioengineered bladders went on to be transplanted into seven people inan initial trial.Now scientists are working on more complicated organs. Jean Hbert, a program manager at the US governments Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health, has been exploring ways to gradually replace the cells in a persons brain. The idea is that, eventually, the recipient will end up with a young brain.Hbertshowed my colleague Antonio Regalado how, in his early experiments, he removed parts of mices brains and replaced them with embryonic stem cells. That work seems a world away from the biochemical studies being presented at the British Society for Research on Ageing annual meeting in Manchester, where I am now.On Wednesday, one scientist described how hed been testing potential longevity drugs on the tiny nematode worm C. elegans. These worms live for only about 15 to 40 days, and his team can perform tens of thousands of experiments with them. About 40% of the drugs that extend lifespan in C. elegans also help mice live longer, he told us.To me, thats not an amazing hit rate. And we dont know how many of those drugs will work in people. Probably less than 40% of that 40%.Other scientists presented work on chemical reactions happening at the cellular level. It was deep, basic science, and my takeaway was that theres a lot aging researchers still dont fully understand.It will take yearsif not decadesto get the full picture of aging at the molecular level. And if we rely on a series of experiments in worms, and then mice, and then humans, were unlikely to make progress for a really long time. In that context, the idea of replacement therapy feels like a shortcut.Replacement is a really exciting avenue because you dont have to understand the biology of aging as much, says Sierra Lore, who studies aging at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark and the Buck Institute for Research on Aging in Novato, California.Lore says she started her research career studying aging at the molecular level, but she soon changed course. She now plans to focus her attention on replacement therapies. I very quickly realized were decades away [from understanding the molecular processes that underlie aging], she says. Why dont we just take what we already knowreplacementand try to understand and apply it better?So perhaps Putins straightforward approach to delaying aging holds some merit. Whether it will grant him immortality is another matter.This article first appeared in The Checkup,MIT Technology Reviewsweekly biotech newsletter. To receive it in your inbox every Thursday, and read articles like this first,sign up here.

InsightsThe Future Is Fluent: Why AI Demands a New Kind of LeaderLeadership roles are shifting to align more closely with the demands of AI initiatives.Organizations that foster an AI-ready culture through leadership will see faster, more sustainable transformation.Explore the full infographic to uncover more insights.View the infographicDigital IntelligenceFuture of WorkShare this resourceShare on LinkedInShare on FacebookShare on XShare on WhatsAppEmail this PageConnect with usChange isnt easy, but we can help. Together well create informed and inspired leaders ready to shape the future of your business.Contact usLatest InsightsTalent ManagementScale Innovation with Speed: The ABCs of Leading InnovationInnovation is an organization-wide capability requiring leaders who can foster collaboration, experimentation, and execution at Read more: Scale Innovation with Speed: The ABCs of Leading InnovationArticleStrategic AlignmentWhy the Tortoise Doesnt Win Anymore: Speed to Skill as a Competitive AdvantageIn a fast-changing market, sustainable advantage comes from how quickly organizations can identify skill needs, Read more: Why the Tortoise Doesnt Win Anymore: Speed to Skill as a Competitive AdvantageArticleTransformationBreaking Through: People-Centered Transformation Powered by LearningOrganizations can embed learning measures into learning for more immediate impact to enrich the experience Read more: Breaking Through: People-Centered Transformation Powered by LearningArticleFuture of WorkFPT Partners with Harvard Business Impact, Empowering Global Workforce with AI-Driven Learning SolutionsFPT partners with Harvard Business Impact to boost leadership development and talent growth. Read more: FPT Partners with Harvard Business Impact, Empowering Global Workforce with AI-Driven Learning SolutionsNewsThe post The Future Is Fluent: Why AI Demands a New Kind of Leader appeared first on Harvard Business Impact.