Longevity Genes?
The March, 2006 issue of Scientific American had an interesting article "Unlocking the Secrets of Longevity Genes". It seems that researchers have found that, in yeast, there are a set of genes that get activated during periods of stress (such as reduced calorie intake, or increased heat or cold) that collaborate to protect DNA from damage. As a result the organisms live 30% longer. It so happens that there are similar genes in other organisms (including humans) that seem to play the same role, and that apparently can extend lifespan. It has long been known, for example, that if you severely restrict the calorie intake of mice, they will live 30% longer lives, and avoid most age related diseases during that extended period. Tests on these mice show that the genes in question are activated by the calorie reduction.
The article is careful to say that none of us who read it will likely be alive to enjoy the a longer lifetime because of this research; but…
