Longevity Genes

If you have parents or grandparents who live to a ripe old age, then you may have a genetic make-up that could produce similar longevity results. Scientific studies disagree on whether living longer is due to the right genetic factors or to lifestyle choices. Earlier research was thought to have identified a gene called sirtuin that prolonged life in worms and flies. This was the foundation for the creation of drugs that seek to fight aging by stimulating sirtuins in the body. It was thought that by tapping into the power of longevity genes, a person can remain as youthful at 70 or 80 or 90 years of age as he or she was at 50. More recently, the link between sirtuin and prolonging life span has come under fire.

Centenarians are the Fastest Growing Demographic

Centenarians are people who live to 100 years of age or more. This group of people happens to be the fastest growing demographic in the developed world. In the United States, for example, the centenarian population is doubling every decade. Scientists are actively studying this segment of the population with the hope of gaining insights into what drives longevity .

Glossary:

Key Phrases:

Read more about Centenarians are the Fastest Growing Demographic
Log in to post comments

Key Phrases:

Glossary:

Key Phrases:

Longevity Genes

Submitted by tom on Thu, 07/01/2010 - 15:09

It was recently reported that a group of scientists at Boston University have defined a group of genetic variations that allow for predictions of human longevity.

Forums:

Key Phrases:

Glossary:

Key Phrases:

Forums:

Glossary:

Key Phrases:

Harvard Researcher Working on Development of Anti-Aging Drug

David Sinclair is Professor of Pathology at the Harvard Medical School. Professor Sinclair presented some of his research at a recent conference sponsored by the International Longevity Center . The research suggests that longevity genes can be leveraged to activate the human body's natural repair mechanisms and enhance longevity. In particular, Sirtuins are proteins responsible for the positive aging effects that accompany caloric restriction. Professor Sinclair and his team of researchers are...

Glossary:

Key Phrases: