A team from the University of Copenhagen (Denmark) discovered one of the most important genes (encoding a protein called OSER1) that affect life expectancy. We identify protein that can prolong life. This is a new factor that affects this and at the same time a protein found in various animals such as fruit flies, nematodes, silkworms and humans – says Prof. Lene Juel Rasmussen, lead author of the new study described in the journal “Nature Communications”.
10 important genes
If a gene is only found in animal models, it can be difficult to relate its effects to human health. Therefore, we first investigated several potential longevity-related proteins that are found in many organisms, including humans. Ultimately, we are interested in identifying human longevity genes because of their interventional potential and opportunity discovery of new drugs– explains study co-author Dr. Zhiquan Li.
Researchers report finding it 10 genes that, when manipulated, changed the lives of animals. OSER1 worked stronger. The discovery could therefore pave the way for new treatment methods.
New treatment methods
We are currently focusing on discovering the role of OSER1 in humans, but the lack of available literature poses a challenge. Little has been published on this topic so far. This study is the first to demonstrate that OSER1 is an important regulator of aging and longevity. In the future, we hope to provide insights into specific age-related diseases and aging processes that are affected by OSER1. – says Dr.
Scientists hope more research will help find it new medicines, that could affect diseases that accompany old age metabolic, cardiovascular or neurodegenerative. A healthy lifestyle affects life expectancy, but – according to scientists – genes play a fundamental role.
