American researchers have for the first time discovered the underlying gene responsible for the aging mechanism in diverse organisms. According to a study published in Cell, sirtuin is the gene contributing to the aging process in single cell organisms such as yeast as well as the multicellular organisms including mammals.
Previous studies had reported that a group of genes known as sirtuins are involved in the aging process of yeast, adding that certain chemicals can positively influence gene expression, and therefore prevent aging.
The study showed that any damage in DNA (due to UV or other free radicals) interferes with the cell's regulatory system, resulting in sirtuins' help in the DNA repair mechanism rather than regulating genes, leading to aging. Findings revealed that the administration of extra copies of the sirtuin gene or its activator can increase the lifespan in mice by 24 to 46 percent.
Mice with low sirtuin levels are reported to be more susceptible to DNA damage and cancer.
Scientists are optimistic that they will be able to figure out the mechanism and help prevent aging in humans. |