Scientists hoping to target queen bees in search of secret to longer life

UK's 800m research body backs project that might unlock radical therapies to extend human lifespans

The curious case of the queen bee has long had scientists pondering whether the head of the hive harbours the secret to a long and healthy life.

While queen bees and workers have nearly identical DNA, the queens enjoy what might be regarded as royal privileges. They are larger, fertile throughout life and survive for years compared with workers, who last a few months at best.