Are There Genes That Slow Down the Aging Process?

The aging process of the body can occur naturally, but various contributing factors also play a role. According to scientists, genetic factors that slow down aging are a focus of research aimed at increasing human lifespan and health. So, do genes actually slow down the aging process?

1. Is Aging Related to Genes?

The aging process is influenced by lifestyle, environmental factors, and daily habits such as skincare and smoking. Additionally, an important factor in determining whether aging is slow or rapid is endogenous factors, which include genes. What functions indicate that genes affect the rate of aging in a person?

1.1 Basic Functions of Genes

Genes contain all genetic information and are responsible for regulating all cellular activities. When a gene is damaged by mutations, it can produce abnormal proteins, leading to malfunctioning functions. Genetic mutations can significantly impact cell development, increasing the risk of cancer. If mutations occur during fetal development, they can lead to genetic syndromes such as Down syndrome or cystic fibrosis.

1.2 Genes that Extend Lifespan

Some genes, especially those that slow down the aging process, play a crucial role in determining human lifespan. Individuals who inherit longevity genes from their grandparents or parents tend to live longer. However, genetics is not the sole factor affecting the aging process. This is evident in identical twins who may have similar genes but do not always have the same lifespan.

Certain genes can help people live healthily and extend their lifespan, such as genes related to cholesterol metabolism that reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Conversely, some genetic mutations can reduce lifespan. Nevertheless, most genetic mutations are not harmful and instead contribute to genetic diversity, strengthening the population.

1.3 Genes Related to the Speed of Aging

Animal studies, such as those involving worms and mice, have shown that a single genetic mutation can extend their lifespan by up to 50%. This provides evidence of the role of genes in slowing down aging.

Telomere length measurements, which are segments of DNA at the end of chromosomes, also indicate their susceptibility to genetic factors and aging speed. Longer telomeres are associated with increased DNA lifespan, playing a crucial role in maintaining human longevity.

It is evident that genes significantly impact whether a person can live long or face risks like cancer and chromosomal mutations. The hereditary factor of longevity related to genes also suggests that there is a basis for genes slowing down the aging process. So, are these genes that determine slow aging normal or are they genetic errors?

2. What Are Genes That Slow Down the Aging Process?

In studies on genes that slow down aging, scientists have identified three key genes that determine the rate of aging, lifespan, and cancer resistance. These three factors are crucial for advancing research on extending human lifespan.

2.1 Sirtuin – Genes That Slow Down Aging by Extending Lifespan

Sirtuins are a group of seven genes encoding proteins, discovered through the evolution of various species. They are considered genes that slow down aging due to their expression affecting age-related health issues, such as cancer and metabolic disorders.

For example, SIRT6 has been studied for its potential to extend lifespan in animals. SIRT1, a gene equivalent to one found in yeast associated with extended lifespan, is also being investigated for similar effects in mammals.

Among these aging-slowing genes, SIRT6 shows more notable potential than SIRT1 due to its ability to extend lifespan. Research indicates that mice lacking SIRT6 age faster and show signs of degeneration, suggesting SIRT6 plays a vital role in DNA repair.

Enhanced expression of SIRT6 has prolonged the lifespan of male mice but not female mice. Scientists are further exploring the relationship between SIRT6 and aging and why SIRT6 affects male and female mice differently.

Research on sirtuin genes has expanded, and these discoveries may play a significant role in identifying new drug targets, aiding in the development of preventive treatments for age-related diseases.

2.2 CISD2: A Gene That Slows Down Aging?

Previous studies have indicated that a gene similar to CISD2, which slows down aging, exists on a human chromosome associated with genetic differences and lifespan.

Scientists hypothesize that CISD2 plays a role in maintaining normal mitochondrial function, which is crucial for normal cell development and division.

Studies on mice show that while CISD2 expression decreases with age, both male and female mice lacking CISD2 age earlier, exhibiting cell death and degeneration in neurons or muscles.

More recent research confirms that mice lacking aging-slowing genes like CISD2 have shorter lifespans and suggests that CISD2 may influence genetic pathways related to longevity and other physiological signs of aging. Maintaining CISD2 expression could potentially extend human lifespan or slow down aging signs.

2.3 Klotho Gene: A Strong Anti-Cancer Factor

The Klotho gene, named after the Greek goddess associated with extending life, is believed to be related to anti-aging properties and is considered a gene that slows down aging.

By age 40, Klotho levels naturally decrease in the human body. Klotho also regulates a protein called Wnt5a, which has been shown to promote cancer cell division and drug resistance. Older patients with malignancies may be more likely to develop drug resistance, and the decline of this aging-slowing gene may be a root cause of the problem.

Recently, scientists discovered that a diabetes drug could stimulate increased Klotho levels in the body while simultaneously reducing Wnt5a levels, a protein associated with drug resistance in cancer treatment.

This discovery provides scientists with a new approach to combat drug resistance, an issue researchers have been addressing for years. It could also be applied to treating other cancers, as the Klotho gene has been shown to control cancer cell spread.

Although research indicates that genes slowing down the aging process are well-founded, it is crucial to maintain health. Regular health check-ups are recommended to detect any health abnormalities early and ensure a slow aging process and extended healthy lifespan.