The first "aging gene"?
Genetic mutations responsible for premature aging have been found
Dmitry Tselikov, Compulenta
A group of Dutch and British scientists have identified specific genetic variants that may explain why some people age earlier than others. The results of this study are important for oncology and understanding the nature of age-related diseases.
Scientists analyzed more than 500 thousand genetic deviations from the standard human genome and found that in people with special variants near the TERC (Telomerase RNA Component) gene, the biological clock is in a hurry for three to four years. "Our study proves that some people are genetically programmed to age at a faster rate," said Tim Spector, one of the leaders of the scientific group from King's College London.
In an article published in the journal Nature Genetics, the researchers explain that there are two forms of aging – chronological, counted by years, and biological, determined by the age of cells. "Science is getting more and more evidence in favor of the fact that the risk of age-related ailments, including cardiovascular diseases and certain types of cancer, is more closely related to biological rather than chronological age," said one of the group members Nilesh Samani, professor of cardiology at the University of Leicester (UK).
Scientists came to their conclusions by studying structures called telomeres. These are protective "caps" at the ends of chromosomes, the length of which is associated with cell aging. A worn or shortened telomere can lead to premature aging and cancer. Three American scientists who discovered the enzyme telomerase, which can prevent telomere wear, received the 2009 Nobel Prize in Medicine for their discovery.
Scientists already know that the TERC gene, which regulates the length of telomeres, plays a key role in the aging process and the occurrence of cancer. For the first time, a new study has identified specific gene variants responsible for premature aging and shortening of telomeres.
Prepared based on Reuters materials.
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