Genetic tests will reveal the secret of human life expectancy
Last reviewed: 16.05.2018
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At the moment, genetic scientists have discovered sixteen genetic variants that determine human life expectancy.
Among these variants, there are three genes that are associated with longevity.
Perhaps most of us would like to know about the potential duration of their lives.
According to statistics, the average American lives 79 years. In this case, the main factors leading to death are cardiovascular pathologies, oncology and obstruction of the lungs. But if you eliminate such diseases, how many years can a person live?
Dr. Kutalik and his associates carefully analyzed the information collected about more than one hundred thousand people. This information was compared with widespread single nucleotide polymorphisms, which had an obvious relationship with complex age pathologies. As experts point out, one in ten people have genetic markers that determine the degree of decrease in the life span. Inheritance of one of the gene variants reduces the probable life expectancy by about seven months.
Unfavorable single nucleotide polymorphisms are involved, for example, in the development of alcohol or drug dependence, senile dementia. The low expression of the RBM 6, SULTA 1, CHRNA 5 genes indicates a high probability of living a long life.
Scientists conducted experiments on animals. It was found that the active gene CHRNA 5 is responsible for the passion for smoking. And everyone knows that smoking is a factor in the development of cancer and lung obstruction, which can significantly shorten the life span. Experts insist: if you have discovered this genetic variant - beware of nicotine!
"We found that rodents with reduced expression of RBM 6 in the brain have a longer life expectancy, unlike other rodents. Interestingly, gene expression also affects food behavior, controlling the feeling of hunger. Moderation in eating is a guarantee of good health and a long life, "says Dr. Robinson Reshawi, representing the Swiss University of Biological Informatics. Scientists were able to establish the relationship between the molecular mechanism of longevity in rodents and humans: in this case, it was discovered a lot of common points.
Simultaneously with this discovery by experts from Switzerland, a new successful program for determining the genetic factors of longevity was created. The Association of Genetics and Biological Informatics expects to present updated markers and test programs in the near future.
Probably, in a couple of years, any of us will have the opportunity to test ourselves for longevity: assess their vulnerabilities and chances for a long life. In this case, instead of general preventive recommendations, the doctor will be able to give individual advice based on the result of the tests.
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