Delete some genes to increase lifespan

Researchers at the Buck Institute for Research on Ageing and University of Washington identified 238 genes that, when removed, increase the replicative lifespan of S cerevisiae yeast cells. This is the first time 189 of these genes have been linked to ageing

These 238 genes are linked to aging and it was found that switching them off extends life in yeast cells, an advance that provides new genomic targets which could be used to boost human lifespan.

Many of the genes are present in mammals, including humans, suggesting that switching them off could dramatically increase lifespan, researchers said.

Written by: Dr. Ajay Sati.