Gaby
Researchers have discovered that enhancing a gene present in all humans may slow down the wear and tear of our cells. A team studying the DNA of fruit flies identified a gene that determines whether they die young. They ran this gene through a database of human genes and found a 93 percent match with a human gene known as DIMT1.
During laboratory experiments, scientists exposed human cells to radiation. This caused effects comparable to the age-related degradation typically seen in humans. The team observed that cells with the enhanced DIMT1 gene “aged” 65 percent more slowly than their unaltered counterparts.
Both the human gene and the fly gene alter the shape and structure of their mitochondria. This plays a significant role in balancing oxidative stress, which triggers the aging process, according to the Daily Mail.
Mitochondria are responsible for producing the energy cells need to function. They act like power plants supplying energy to cells. If they don’t receive the necessary energy, tissues and organs fail to operate properly, initiating the aging process.
Additional Details of the Study
In their search for genes that slow aging, the team examined 1,283 segments of fruit fly DNA and identified the gene CG11837, which regulates their lifespan. When researchers increased the activity of this gene, the fruit flies lived 59 percent longer.
Using artificial intelligence, the team found that the structure of CG11837 is similar to that of the human gene DIMT1. They then conducted experiments using cells from an adult male, boosting the production of DIMT1 for three days.
The modified cells grew at the same rate as the unaltered ones. However, when the team exposed both groups of cells to X-ray radiation, they noticed a difference. The modified cells aged 65 percent less and grew 24 percent faster than the control group cells.
Researchers also managed to reverse aging in mice. Those subjected to experimental gene therapy lived 109 percent longer than mice that received a placebo.
This type of gene therapy is not yet available for humans. However, experts suggest that it could be a reality within the next five years.
Scientists hope that their findings will pave the way for new research into activating this “magic” gene in humans.
The study’s conclusions were published in the journal Nature Aging.
