Another life longevity gene found by Albert Einstein College

Deino

6 Mar 08, 00:30

Scientists at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University have found that some gene mutations directly affect the life longevity of one person.

The specific gene mentioned is the one governing cell-signal pathway. The researchers took the Eastern-European Jews or who are known as Ashkenazi Jews as their test population.

The total number of participants in the study reached 450 and have ages between 95 and 110. The same group was key to finding the first two "longevity genes" back in 2003.

Ashkenazi Jews are perfect for the study as they are descendants of a small group of people. Their genetic makeup are pretty much uniform and any deviations can easily be noticed.

This specific study gave emphasis on genes involved in the action of insulin-like growth factor or what is referred to as IGF-I. This gene is vital for children's growth and tissue synthesis during the later life stages.

"Our findings suggest that, by interfering with IGF-I signaling, these gene mutations somehow play a role in extending the human life span, as they do in many other organisms," commented Dr Nir Barzilai who is serving as the senior author of the study.

The doctor added that there are on-going testings for a drug that decreases IGF-I action. If proven to be effective, this will be used to help cure cancer patients and ultimately delay one's aging.

[Via AECOM ]

ndmmxiaomayi

6 Mar 08, 01:24

Hmm... sounds interesting.

But they say interfering... wonder what's the effects of that? Other than longevity?

magical_wen

6 Mar 08, 10:51

PUT INTO ME!!!!