An international group of researchers examined expression of genes in blood samples from 15,000 people.
New research has shed light on the molecular changes that occur in our bodies as we age. In the largest study of its kind, an international group of researchers, including experts from the University of Exeter’s Medical School, examined expression of genes in blood samples from 15,000 people across the world.
They found 1,450 genes that are linked to aging, and also uncovered a link between these genes and factors such as diet, smoking and exercise. Whilst the underlying causes of human aging are largely unknown, growing old increases the risk of diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and stroke — 3 of the leading causes of death.
The research team specifically looked for changes in gene expression, a process in which the information contained in genes is ‘expressed’ by reading the DNA sequence and creating RNA, and subsequently proteins. By looking in blood, the researchers aimed to find easy to measure markers of human aging.
This technique allowed them to develop a new method to predict people’s ‘biological age’ and show that people with a biological age older than their actual age were more likely to have conditions such as high blood pressure or cholesterol.
Dr Luke Pilling, Associate Research Fellow in Genomic Epidemiology at the University of Exeter and part of the research team said: “This study has discovered many genes that change in their patterns of expression with age. This study has not only given insights into aging mechanisms – such as mitochondrial function – but these techniques have potential use in prediction and treatment.”
During the research, the experts identified 1,497 aging genes, of which about 1,450 are newly identified. Many of the genes work together in pathways such as generating the energy supply of the cells (mitochondrial function), metabolic processes, and the stability and flexibility of the cells.
http://www.exeter.ac.uk/news/featurednews/title_478415_en.html
Recent Comments