It started with lobsters. Not the usual source of chaos and societal decline, but it has to start somewhere. Lobsters create an enzyme called '“telomerase” which allows for the number of divisions their cells make. This in turn allows them to repair bodies at incredible rates— effectively gifting them immortality. Naturally, a scientist wondered if they could distill the genetic function and transfer it to other species. Namely, humans.

The first trials ended poorly. Trying to correct cosmic experiments never seems to bode well for those that meddle. The rats they altered became abnormally intelligent as they lived significantly longer lives.