by Anika Narang
Image: Fountain of Youth, Credits:Jan Voorhaar/flickr
In previous years, it has been found that genes have a significant impact on small organisms, by extending their lifespan. Fruit flies have been discovered to live 10% longer purely because of their genes, and in a study conducted by UCL, they concluded that our genes do affect our lifespans. [1]
From previous research, it was found that by inhibiting certain genes involved in protein synthesis in cells, the lifespan of model organisms - such as flies could be extended. Though this process was effective in small organisms, for humans, this loss of function would result in a disease called ribosomopathies. Some clinical features for this illness are bone marrow failure and an increased risk of cancer.
Like fruit flies, the genes that are involved in protein synthesis within human cells are incredibly important, however scientists theorise that they are not essential for us in the later stages of life. This is an example of Antagonistic pleiotropy theory which is essentially the proposition that these genes (which enhance fitness) in early life can shorten life span, however this still remains an under researched topic.
In a recent study on 11,262 individuals who had lived long lives - above their 90s, found that the people with reduced activity of some genes were more likely to live longer than those with more of these genes. The genes are linked to two RNA polymerase enzymes (Pols) that transcribe ribosomal and transfer RNAs, namely Pol I and Pol III, as well as the expression of ribosomal protein genes.
These results also support the evidence that drugs such as rapamycin, an immune regulator which acts to inhibit Pol III, could potentially lead to a longer and healthy lifespan. Uncovering the genetic cause of ageing will be a crucial step in developing medications to combat ageing, such as rapamycin, in humans, perhaps even being the secret to unlocking longevity in the future.
Citations
[1] Conducted by Dr Nazif Alic from UCL (Institute of healthy aging) in 2022
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