Scientists identify gene that boosts lifespan, quality of life

0 Comments | AFP, May, 2007

PARIS (AFP) — The elixir of youth may ultimately be hidden in a poorly-understood gene that not only fosters longevity but enhances quality of life, according to a landmark study released Wednesday.

In a series of experiments on earthworms, a team of scientists at the Salk Institute in San Diego, California have identified for the first time a gene, known as PHA-4, which plays a critical role in prolonging life without tapping into insulin-regulating neural pathways that also control the aging process.

Other molecular biologists hailed the study as a "breakthrough" that will change research agendas in the new but burgeoning field of longevity genetics.

But they also cautioned that duplicating the results in humans is far more complicated.

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