Several individuals have publicly attempted to augment themselves with genes that will inhibit cell death or boost muscle growth, and self-experimentation is also happening in private.

Brian Hanley (picture above) , a microbiologist who gave himself a gene therapy designed to increase his stamina and life span. Hanley designed a plasmid containing a gene coding for growth hormone–releasing hormone. A physician assisted in administration of the plasmid to Hanley's thigh using electroporation. The plasmids were administered twice: once in summer 2015 and a second larger dose in July 2016.

Hanley said that the treatment has helped him. Results – Testosterone up 20% with a peak increase of 77%. White blood counts up 16% with a peak of 40%. Lipid profile improved: HDLs up to 76, a rise of 20%. LDL down 20%. Triglycerides down 50%, with a low being down 60%. Healing time is much faster. Pulse rate appears to have dropped by 10 beats per minute or more.