Many people are living longer than previous generations did, but researchers are also trying to understand why some individuals remain healthy well into old age.
In this context, researchers behind the Leiden Longevity Study analyzed families in the Netherlands where exceptional longevity recurs across multiple generations, according to Medical Daily.
Using genetic analyses, they identified several regions of the genome that occur more frequently in these families than in the general population.
The search for an explanation
The researchers examined 212 sibling groups with a history of exceptional longevity and published their findings in the journal bioRxiv.
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The aim was to identify genetic differences that may help protect against disease and age-related health problems.
Previous research from the same project has shown that descendants of these families generally enjoy better health than others of the same age.
The body’s alert system
Much of the researchers’ attention is focused on the body’s immune system.
Here, the cGAS-STING signaling pathway plays an important role. The system helps the body respond to damage, but it can also contribute to chronic inflammation, which is associated with aging.
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Several pharmaceutical companies are already developing treatments that target this mechanism.
The surprising discovery
The researchers eventually identified a rare genetic variant in the CGAS gene. The variant was found in only two of the families studied.
According to the research findings, the variant reduces the activity of the cGAS-STING system.
This leads to lower levels of inflammation and slower cellular aging.
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The results were confirmed through laboratory experiments involving both human and mouse cells.
The researchers therefore believe that this rare genetic variant may be part of the explanation for why some families not only live longer but also maintain better health throughout their lives.
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